Dental Bonding: Eligibility, Procedure, Risk, and Care

Thanks to advancements in dental technology, you don’t have to live with a damaged tooth for the rest of your life. Whether your tooth is discolored or chipped, you have a variety of cosmetic treatments to choose from. For instance, you can opt for dental fillings, crowns, or dental bonding.

Compared to dental procedures such as veneers, dental bonding is considerably less expensive. If you’re considering dental bonding, you should consult with your dentist to determine if this procedure is right for you. Beverly Dental Group offers excellent cosmetic dental bonding treatment.

Who’s a Good Candidate for Dental Bonding?

Not everyone is eligible for dental bonding. You should visit your dentist for a dental examination to determine whether you’re eligible. Your dentist will examine your oral health to ensure that dental bonding is suitable for you.

Your dentist may advise against dental bonding if your tooth is seriously damaged, either with chips or cracks. For such a condition, a dental crown can serve you better. Below are some of the most common dental issues that can be addressed by dental bonding.

• Chipped/Cracked Teeth -The dentist can place composite resin in the chipped or cracked area to restore the tooth’s shape and appearance.
• Short /Small Teeth – The dentist can apply composite resin on the tooth’s surface to increase its length.
• Discolored Teeth – The dentist can apply a natural-looking resin to hide stubborn stains and discoloration that can’t be corrected with teeth whitening techniques.
• Teeth Gaps – Resin can be applied to the insides of the teeth to close undesired teeth gaps.

If it’s done well, nobody besides you and your dentist should be able to tell you’ve had a dental bonding. The results are natural if you choose a resin that matches the color of your surrounding teeth.

During Bonding Procedure

If your dentist confirms that dental bonding is suitable for you, they will guide you through the treatment. This may include what to expect during and after the procedure, preparation, costs, and associated risks, among other details.

Afterward, you’ll be given a later date to come in for the procedure. Luckily, dental bonding is performed in a single appointment. Here is what to expect for a dental bonding procedure:

• The dentist begins the treatment by cleaning the teeth and the surrounding area to prepare you for the procedure.
• The dentist then roughens the damaged teeth to allow the resin to bond easily with the teeth.
• The dentist then applies a tooth-colored composite resin to the damaged teeth.
• The dentist will mold the resin to reshape or fill in the chips or cracks.
• To harden the resin, the dentist uses a special blue light.
• Your dentist may ask you to perform a few dental tests, such as biting, to check if the resin is comfortable.
• Your dentist will then smoothen and polish the bonded tooth to give it a natural appearance.

After the treatment, the dentist may schedule another appointment to review the progress of your bonding. You’ll also be given a few aftercare tips on how to care for your new dental bonding. These include:

• Avoid smoking and colored drinks such as coffee, soda, and tea as they could stain the bonding material. Once the resin has been stained or discolored, it can’t be whitened like your natural teeth. It will only leave behind a dull and grey appearance, which will affect your smile.
• Brush your teeth regularly, about 2 – 3 times a day.
• Floss daily.
• Don’t use your teeth to bite nails or cut things off.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods such as nuts and candy.
• Schedule regular visits to your dentists for professional examination and cleaning.
• Eat healthily and stay hydrated.

How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?

With proper oral care and practices, dental bonding can last for about 4-8 years. Other factors that could affect your bonding’s durability include the location of the bonded tooth, your eating habits, your bite, and your overall oral health.

Risks of Teeth Bonding

Since composite resin isn’t as strong as natural teeth, it’s possible that it may chip or crack. If this happens or the bonding develops rough edges, contact your dentist immediately. Dental bonding can easily be repaired.

Schedule your Appointment Today

If you’re considering dental bonding treatment for your chipped or damaged tooth, contact Beverly Dental Group today to schedule your appointment.