At Midway Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide our patients numerous methods of recapturing that perfect smile you deserve to have. For instance, if you are suffering from tooth decay, cracked or chipped teeth, exposed tooth roots due to receding gums, gaps in the teeth, or you just wish to change the shape or color of your teeth, you may want to consider dental bonding. Not only is dental bonding a painless procedure; it is also among the fastest and least expensive means of altering the look of your teeth.
What is Dental Bonding
Dental Bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure which involves a tooth-colored resin (plastic) material being applied to an existing tooth and then bonded with an ultraviolet light. Once applied, the resin is molded, etched, and shaped in such a way that it resembles the surrounding teeth in both shape and color. In addition to emulating shape and color, it can also be used to change a tooth’s size in length or width, even helping to fill gaps in between your teeth.
How It Works?
Unlike similar procedures such as amalgam filing, bonding requires little to no preparatory measures beforehand and typically requires just one visit (taking anywhere between 30 minutes and an hour per tooth), depending on the number of teeth involved. Anesthetics are rarely ever used unless in cases of tooth decay.
We begin by selecting an appropriately colored-resin mold to match the color of your teeth. This resin is often the same used to fill in cavities and repair chipped or cracked teeth. The tooth is roughened and coated with a conditioning liquid which helps it bond to it. The resin is then applied to the tooth and molded in order to match the look and consistency of your teeth. Once completed, it is hardened by an ultraviolet curing light. At this point, the resin has now bonded with your tooth, and after additionally trimming and refinement the procedure is complete.
Possible Drawbacks
Bonding is a quick and painless procedure, but it is also a short-term one. Bonding typically lasts several years before needing to be repaired or replaced due to regular ware and tear. Additionally, the bonding is not as strong as your actual tooth, which makes it more prone to staining, chipping, and even shattering. Because of this, bonding is best done on teeth with less bite pressure (i.e. front teeth). Those looking for a more long-term or sturdy solution may want to consider other cosmetic methods.
Care and Upkeep
Due to its vulnerability to staining, it is recommended that you refrain from eating or drinking any staining foods for the first 48 hours of application. (This includes smoking). From there, maintaining your new smile comes down to good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth often and be sure to keep up with regular dental checkups.
As a further precaution, it is recommended that you refrain from activities like biting nails, gnawing on pencils, chewing ice, or any other practice that will place excess pressure on the affected tooth, as this may cause it to chip or break. If at any point you notice something abnormal about the way your teeth feel, seek a professional, because it is possible your composite has broken.
How to Get Started
Are you considering dental bonding as a possible cosmetic solution? Do you still have questions on whether this is the right step for you? If so, the best thing to do is come to Midway Family and Cosmetic Dentistry to receive quality advice from an Alpharetta Cosmetic Dentist as to what to do next. We are located in Alpharetta, GA, and are available for all curious patients living in the Alpharetta, Cumming, Forsyth, and Atlanta. Book an appointment today and start your journey towards the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
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