Dental Bonding Procedure

Tooth bonding is the application of a tooth-colored resin material using adhesives and a high intensity curing light. The procedure gets its name because materials are bonded to the tooth. Bonding is typically used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a discolored or chipped tooth. It is also used to close spaces between teeth, to make teeth look longer or to change the shape or color of teeth. Often times bonding is used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings, or to protect a portion of the tooth's root that has been exposed when gums recede.

The Uses:

Dental bonding can be considered to fix the following dental issues:

• To repair decayed teeth (composite resins are used to fill cavities)

• To repair chipped or cracked teeth

• To improve the appearance of discolored teeth

• To close spaces between teeth

• To make teeth look longer

• To change the shape of teeth

• As a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings

• To protect a portion of the tooth's root that has been exposed when gums recede

The Procedure

The bonding procedure begins when your dentist uses a shade guide to choose a composite resin color to match the color of your teeth. After your dentist has determined the appropriate color for your teeth, he or she will carefully abrade the surface of your tooth to prepare it for the bonding procedure. The tooth will then be coated with a small amount of adhesive liquid which is designed to help the bonding material stay on the surface of your teeth.

Once all the preparations are complete, your dentist will then apply the composite resin onto your teeth. This resin is then molded and smoothed until the substance complies with the shape of your teeth. The resin is then hardened using either Ultraviolet Light or a Dental Laser. After the bonding substance hardens, the next step is to trim and shape it even further. This will allow your dentist to polish the bonding material to match the natural color of your tooth’s surface. The entire bonding process usually takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete. However, if you want to have several of your teeth bonded then you will need to schedule several appointments.

After the bonding procedure is over, you will need to avoid consuming food products which can potentially stain the resin on your teeth in the next 48 hours. Food products, like tea, coffee and tobacco are good examples, so be sure to discuss this issue with your dentist when you get the chance.

Choose the right dentist before going for this dental treatment