One of the treatment options a cosmetic dentist may employ to improve the appearance of a person's smile is dental bonding. Also known as tooth bonding, dental bonding is a procedure that involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the teeth to achieve the desired result.
When a cosmetic dentist performs dental bonding, the dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the teeth and then hardens the material by using a light made for this purpose. As the material hardens, it becomes bonded to the tooth, which keeps the material in place.
Dental bonding can be used to correct issues with the teeth or to change the appearance of the teeth to meet the patient's aesthetic goals. Dentists perform tooth bonding procedures for multiple reasons:
If bonding is being done to fill a cavity or change the shape of a tooth, the tooth may need to be drilled before the bonding procedure. Otherwise, the cosmetic dentist begins the process by selecting a resin color that matches the shade of the natural teeth. The dentist then roughens the tooth surface and applies a conditioning liquid to make it easier for the resin to adhere to the tooth. Next, the dentist applies, molds, and smooths the resin into the chosen shape. A bright light or laser is then used to harden the resin. Finally, the dentist shapes and trims the hardened material to achieve the desired result and match the appearance of the natural teeth. The entire process usually takes between 30-60 minutes but may require more than one visit if multiple teeth are being bonded.
Dental bonding is often less expensive than veneers or crowns because the material can be molded and shaped in the office by the dentist, rather than manufactured in a lab. The procedure also requires less removal of tooth enamel. However, dental bonding is not as durable or stain-resistant as veneers, crowns, and fillings. Bonding material typically needs to be replaced or touched up in 3-10 years.
The bonding material is not as strong as natural teeth, so patients are advised to avoid activities, such as nail-biting and ice chewing, that could chip the resin. It is also a good idea to limit the consumption of coffee, tea, and wine and avoid smoking because these substances can stain the resin.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
Cosmetic Dentist Dental Bonding in Tucson, AZ
The dental bonding procedure involves attaching a tooth-colored resin to the tooth to correct discolored teeth, chips, cracks, or gaps. While the material is not as resilient as some other alternative treatments, the procedure is quick, usually less expensive, and with proper aftercare, can last up to 10 years.
Request an appointment or call Oro Valley Family Dentistry at 520-833-5261 for an appointment in our Tucson office.
Thinking about choosing a cosmetic dentist? Read on to learn more about what to consider during your search. To many patients, cosmetic dentistry is primarily a cosmetic enhancement. However, it often intersects with overall dental health. Therefore, it is important to consider several aspects before settling on a cosmetic dentist.Cosmetic dentists do more than enhance…
If you are more concerned about the appearance of your teeth than their function, cosmetic dentistry may offer the solutions you are looking for. There are a number of cosmetic treatments available to improve the size, shape, color, spacing, and apparent alignment of your teeth. The process usually begins with a consultation, during which you…
A cosmetic dentist can recommend various treatments to improve the appearance of teeth. Most cosmetic treatments are elective and not intended to restore function; however, they help patients attain a beautiful and confident smile. The goal of cosmetic dentistry is to enhance a patient's smile by improving the teeth's appearance regarding:ColorShapeAlignmentSizeSpacingEvery mouth has different proportions…
Dental crowns are a popular option for restoring a smile, but they offer more benefits than you may know. A dental crown is a customized, tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or compromised tooth to help its shape, size, appearance, and strength. Discover common signs indicating a dental crown is right for you.A dental crown…
Dental crowns may be the final touch after a root canal treatment. This therapy is your dentist’s effort to keep your teeth intact. It aims to remove the source of pain and infection. In some patients, extra tooth protection is necessary after a root canal. Here are the details about when dental crowns are necessary…