What is Dental bonding? Details on Tooth Bonding

What can it be?

Bonding is the use of a tooth-colored composite resin (plastic) to repair a decayed, chipped, fractured or discolored tooth. Unlike veneers, which are manufactured in a lab and need a form that was customized to attain a proper fit, bonding can be done in a single visit. The procedure is called bonding to the tooth because the material bonds.

What it's Used for?

Bonding is one of the simplest and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures. The complex resin can be formed and polished to match the surrounding teeth. Usually, bonding can be used for decorative purposes to improve the appearance of a chipped or discolored tooth. Additionally, it may be used to alter colour or the shape of teeth, to make teeth look longer or to close spaces between teeth.

Occasionally, bonding also can be used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings, or to protect a part of the root of the tooth that's been exposed when gums recede. Preparation No preparation is needed for bonding.

Anesthesia often is not crucial, unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth.

How it is Done

Your dentist uses a colour guide to select the composite resin colour that will match the tooth's tone most strongly.

Your dentist has chosen the color, he or she will abrade or etch the surface of the tooth. The tooth will be coated with a conditioning liquid, which helps the bonding substance stick.

When the tooth is prepared, your dentist will apply the tooth-colored, putty- like resin. Then the material is hardened with laser or an ultraviolet light.

After the bonding material hardens, your dentist will further trim and shape it. Then she or he will polish the stuff until it matches the sheen of the remainder of the tooth surface.

It normally takes about half an hour to one hour to finish the process. You may have to schedule several visits, in case you 're having more than one done.

Coffee, tea, cigarette smoke and other materials can stain the resin. To prevent or minimize stains, it's essential in order to avoid drinking or eating foods that can stain after any procedure that is composite. Additionally, brush your teeth often and have them cleaned frequently by a dental hygienist.

Threats

The complex resin used in bonding is not almost as strong as a natural tooth. Biting chewing on ice or your fingernails or pencils can chip the material. Bonding typically continues before it has to be repaired.

When to Call a Professional

In the days after having the bonding done, call your dentist if you detect sharp edges on the bonded teeth, or your teeth feel odd or "off" when you bite down.