Bonding is a cosmetic dentistry technique used to improve the appearance of teeth. This technique utilizes a tooth-colored composite resin material to create a strong and natural-looking bond to the front surface of a tooth. Bonding can be used to repair chips, cracks, discolorations, and even misaligned teeth. The process is quick and painless and can provide a more aesthetically pleasing smile. At Washington Dental, we offer bonding treatments to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. Our experienced cosmetic dentists in Carson are dedicated to providing our patients with the highest quality of dental care.
What is Cosmetic Bonding?
Cosmetic bonding is a dental procedure used to improve the appearance of teeth. It is a relatively simple and painless procedure that involves bonding a tooth-colored composite resin material to the existing tooth surface to improve the shape and color of the tooth, or to close gaps between the teeth.
Cosmetic bonding is a great way to improve the appearance of your smile. It can be used to fix chips, cracks, and other minor imperfections in your teeth. It can also be used to close gaps between teeth, improve the color, shape, and size of teeth, and even replace silver amalgam fillings with white composite fillings.
The dentist uses a tooth-colored composite resin material and bonds it to the existing tooth surface. This material is a mixture of plastic and fine glass particles that are applied directly to the tooth with a special light. The composite resin material is then hardened with light and shaped to match the original tooth. The material is then polished to match the sheen of the existing teeth.
The entire process usually takes less than an hour and can have dramatic results. Cosmetic bonding can be a great way to improve the appearance of your smile without the need for more invasive treatments, such as veneers or crowns.
Types of Cosmetic Bonding Materials
There are four main types of cosmetic bonding materials: composite resin, porcelain, glass ionomer, and acrylic. Each type of material has its unique characteristics and benefits.
Composite resin is the most popular type of cosmetic bonding material. It is a mixture of glass and plastic particles that are bonded together with a special adhesive. Composite resin is strong and durable and can be used to fill gaps in teeth and replace missing pieces of enamel. It is also one of the most affordable options for cosmetic bonding materials.
Porcelain is another type of cosmetic bonding material. It is made from ceramic particles that are bonded with a special adhesive. Porcelain is very strong and durable and can be used to fill gaps in teeth and to cover up discolored or stained teeth. However, porcelain is more expensive than composite resin and is not as easy to work with.
Glass ionomer is a type of cosmetic bonding material that is made from glass and fluoride ions that are bonded together with a special adhesive. Glass ionomer is often used to fill small cavities in teeth and to help prevent decay. It is also used to bond crowns and bridges to the teeth.
Acrylic is the least common type of cosmetic bonding material. It is made from a mixture of acrylic and glass particles that are bonded together with a special adhesive. Acrylic is not as strong as the other types of materials and is not as durable. However, it is the least expensive of the four types of materials and is the easiest to work with.
When is Dental Bonding Recommended?
Dental bonding is recommended when a patient has:
- Chipped or cracked teeth — Bonding is a popular method for repairing chips and cracks because it can be done quickly and easily. The dentist can use a composite resin to fill the damaged area and match the color of the surrounding teeth.
- Gaps between teeth — Bonding is an ideal way to close small gaps between teeth. The dentist will apply a thin layer of composite resin to the teeth and then sculpt it to the desired shape to fill in the gap.
- Discolored teeth — Teeth whitening may be the best option for whitening discolored teeth, but dental bonding is also an option. The dentist can apply a thin layer of composite resin to the discolored area of the tooth and match it to the color of the surrounding teeth.
- Worn or misshapen teeth — Dental bonding is a great option for restoring worn or misshapen teeth. The dentist can use a composite resin to reshape the teeth and make them look more natural.
- To protect exposed roots — Bonding can be used to protect exposed roots. The dentist will apply a thin layer of composite resin to the exposed root and then sculpt it to the desired shape.
Teeth Bonding Process
Below are the steps involved before, during, and after teeth bonding.
Before the Procedure
Before having teeth bonding, you will need to schedule a consultation with your dentist. During this appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your goals for the procedure. This is also a good time to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have about the procedure.
Your dentist may also take an X-ray of your teeth and take dental impressions to create a model of your teeth and gums. This is done to ensure that the bonding material is applied correctly and that the resin color matches your natural teeth.
Before the teeth bonding procedure, your dentist will also need to prepare your teeth. This involves cleaning your teeth and roughening the surface of the teeth that will be receiving the bonding material.
During the Procedure
Once your teeth have been prepared, your dentist will then apply the teeth bonding material to the surface of your teeth. This material comes in a putty-like consistency and is easily shaped and molded to create the desired results.
Your dentist will then use a special light to harden the material and ensure that it is applied correctly. Once the material is hardened, your dentist will then trim and shape the material to create a natural-looking, seamless smile.
After the Procedure
Once the teeth bonding is complete, your dentist will then polish the material to give your teeth a smooth and natural-looking finish. This also helps to protect the material from staining and discoloration.
Your dentist may also suggest that you avoid certain foods and drinks, such as coffee and tea, for 24 hours after the procedure to prevent staining. It’s also important to maintain good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing twice daily and flossing, to ensure the longevity of the teeth bonding.
Questions to Ask Your Dentist Before Bonding
If you’re considering bonding, it’s important to ask your dentist the right questions to ensure you’re getting the best care. Here are some questions to ask your dentist about bonding.
How long will the bonding last?
Bonding is not a permanent solution and can last anywhere from three to 10 years depending on the type of material used, the skill of your dentist, and how well you take care of your teeth. Ask your dentist how long the bonding is expected to last to get an idea of how often you’ll need to visit the dentist for maintenance.
What type of material will be used?
There are a few different types of materials that can be used for bonding. Ask your dentist about the type of material that will be used and why it was chosen. This will help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of the material and how it will affect the longevity of the bonding.
What is the Bonding Process Like?
It’s important to understand the process of bonding and what it entails. Ask your dentist to walk you through the steps and describe the procedure in detail so you know what to expect.
Are there any Risks or Side Effects Associated with Bonding?
Bonding is generally a safe procedure, but there are still potential risks and side effects that you should be aware of. Ask your dentist about any risks or side effects associated with the bonding, such as sensitivity or the risk of fracturing your tooth.
What Type of Aftercare is Necessary?
Aftercare is an important part of any dental procedure, and bonding is no exception. Ask your dentist what type of aftercare is necessary to ensure the best results and to protect your bonding from any damage.
What are the Benefits of Dental Bonding?
Below are some of the advantages of dental bonding.
Low Cost
Dental bonding is an affordable way to improve the appearance of your smile. It is often much less expensive than other cosmetic procedures such as veneers and crowns.
Quick and Non-Invasive
Dental bonding is a simple and non-invasive procedure. It can be completed in one visit and does not require anesthesia or long recovery times.
Natural Look
Dental bonding provides a natural look that is difficult to tell apart from the original tooth. It allows you to maintain a natural appearance while still improving the overall look of your teeth.
Strong and Durable
Dental bonding is a strong and durable material. It can last for up to ten years and can be used to restore teeth that have been damaged due to decay or trauma.
Easy to Maintain
Dental bonding is easy to maintain and does not require any special care. It is resistant to staining and does not require any special cleaning products.
What are the Disadvantages of Dental Bonding?
While dental bonding is a safe and effective procedure, there are a few potential drawbacks.
One of the major drawbacks of dental bonding is its durability. The material used for bonding is not as strong or durable as other dental materials, such as porcelain or gold. As a result, the bond may begin to wear away over time, especially if you are a regular coffee or tea drinker or smoker. Additionally, the material used for bonding can become stained over time, making it more prone to discoloration.
Another potential disadvantage of dental bonding is that it is not reversible. Once the material is applied, it cannot be removed without damaging the underlying tooth structure. This means that if you decide you don't like the results of the bonding, you cannot simply have it removed and start again.
In addition, dental bonding is not suitable for all dental problems. For example, if you have a large cavity or a missing tooth, dental bonding may not be an option. In some cases, dental bonding can also be more expensive than other treatments, such as veneers or crowns.
Finally, dental bonding may not be the best option for people with poor oral hygiene. If you don't brush and floss regularly, the bonding material can become discolored or stained more quickly.
Risks of Cosmetic Dental Bonding
While cosmetic dental bonding offers a quick and easy way to improve the look of your teeth, there are some risks associated with the procedure.
The first risk is the potential for the bonds to become stained or discolored. The resin material used in bonding is not as resistant to staining as other restorative materials, such as porcelain. As a result, the bonds may take on the color of any foods or drinks that you consume. In addition, smoking can cause the bonds to become discolored.
Another risk associated with cosmetic dental bonding is the possibility that the resin material may not bond properly to the tooth, leading to a weakened bond. If the bond fails, it can lead to the restoration becoming loose or falling out. To reduce the risk of the bond failing, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for taking care of your teeth after the procedure.
In addition, the resin material used for cosmetic dental bonding is not as strong as other restorative materials, such as porcelain. As a result, the bonds may not be able to withstand the same amount of force as other restorations. This means that if you chew on hard objects or grind your teeth, the bonds may break or chip.
How Long Does it Last?
Dental bonding can last anywhere from three to ten years, depending on the patient's oral hygiene habits. If the patient takes good care of their teeth, then the bonding should last the full ten years before needing to be touched up or replaced.
However, there are several factors that can affect the longevity of dental bonding. First, the quality of the materials used to bond the teeth will play a big role in how long the bonding will last. If a higher quality material is used, then it will last longer than a material of lower quality.
Second, the technique used to bond the teeth will also affect the longevity of the bonding. If the dentist is not careful when applying the material and does not take the time to ensure that the bonding is done properly, then it may not last as long as it should.
Finally, the patient’s oral hygiene habits will also affect the longevity of the dental bonding. If the patient brushes and flosses regularly and avoids foods and drinks that can stain the teeth, then the bonding should last for the full ten years. However, if the patient does not practice good oral hygiene or eats and drinks food and drinks that can stain the teeth, then the bonding may not last as long as expected.
How to Take Care of Your Bonded Teeth
Taking care of your bonded teeth is essential for maintaining your oral health. Here are some steps to help you take care of your bonded teeth:
Brush and Floss Regularly
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Be sure to carefully brush around the bonded tooth and gently floss between it and the other teeth. This will help prevent any food particles from becoming trapped and causing discoloration.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can stain the resin material used in bonding. Try to limit your consumption of these items or be sure to rinse your mouth out with water after eating or drinking them.
Don’t Bite Down on Hard Objects
Avoid biting down on hard items, such as ice or hard candies, as this can cause the bonding material to chip or crack.
Visit your Dentist Regularly
Make sure to visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will be able to check the bonded tooth for any signs of damage and make sure it is still in good condition.
Use a Mouth Guard
If you play sports or participate in any other activity that could cause trauma to your teeth, be sure to wear a mouth guard to protect your bonding.
Use Non-abrasive Toothpaste
Abrasive toothpaste can wear away the bond and cause discoloration. Use a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to help keep your teeth and bond clean.
Alternatives to Cosmetic Bonding
While cosmetic bonding can be an effective treatment for improving the appearance of the teeth, some alternatives may be more suitable depending on the situation.
One alternative to cosmetic bonding is porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are bonded to the front surface of the tooth. They can be used to correct discoloration, chips, and other cosmetic concerns. Unlike cosmetic bonding, the color of porcelain veneers can be customized to match the shade of the surrounding teeth. Additionally, porcelain veneers are more durable than composite resin and can last for up to 10 years with proper care.
Another alternative to cosmetic bonding is dental crowns. Unlike veneers, which are used to improve the appearance of the front of the tooth, crowns are used to improve the appearance of the entire tooth. Crowns are designed to fit over the entire tooth and can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, and ceramic. They can be used to improve the shape, size, and color of the tooth and are more resistant to staining and discoloration than composite resin.
Inlays and onlays are another type of restoration that can be used to improve the appearance of the teeth. Inlays and onlays are made of porcelain and fit into the grooves of the teeth. They can be used to correct chips, cracks, and misalignments, and are more durable than composite resin.
Finally, teeth whitening is a great option for improving the appearance of the teeth. It can be used to lighten the shade of the teeth and is much more affordable than other cosmetic dental procedures. Teeth whitening is also very safe and effective and can be done in the comfort of your own home.
No matter what type of treatment you decide to pursue, it's important to discuss your options with your dentist. Your dentist can help you determine which treatment is best for you based on your individual needs and goals.
Costs of Cosmetic Bonding
The cost of cosmetic bonding depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the location of the dentist’s office, the type of material used, and the amount of work required. In general, the cost of cosmetic bonding ranges from $100 to $1,000 per tooth, with the average cost being around $250 to $600 per tooth.
The cost of cosmetic bonding is lower than other cosmetic dental treatments, such as veneers or crowns. This is because the procedure is less invasive and does not require the use of a lab. Additionally, the cost of cosmetic bonding is often less than other treatments because it can be completed in a single visit, as opposed to multiple visits for other treatments.
When considering the cost of cosmetic bonding, it is important to remember that the material used in the procedure will affect the cost. Composite resin materials are typically more expensive than porcelain veneers or crowns. Additionally, the cost of the material can vary based on the color. The more natural colors, such as white or off-white, are more expensive.
Find an Orthodontist Near Me
If you are looking for a cosmetic dentistry solution in the Carson area, Washington Dental is a great option. Our cosmetic bonding service is an excellent way to improve the aesthetics of your smile, and the dentists and staff are highly experienced in providing bonding services. Call us today at 310-217-1507.
