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Dental Bonding

Dental bonding on the anterior or front teeth is an excellent method for repairing minor imperfections such as chips and stains. It can also be used to fill gaps between the teeth called diastemas. Although no cosmetic dentistry procedure can take the place of good oral and periodontal hygiene, dental bonding can brighten your smile quickly and easily.

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• Explanation of Procedure

  In dental bonding, a composite resin material is applied to the tooth and then sculpted and shaped to cover damaged areas or to fill in gaps. This material comes in several shades so it can be matched to the natural color of your tooth. Bonding usually requires only one visit, so it is less time-consuming and less expensive than other tooth restoration methods.

  The dentist will prepare your tooth for treatment by roughening and shaping or contouring the surface. Next he/she will apply a conditioning solution and bonding agent that together act as a strong adhesive or glue, to ensure that the composite will adhere. Next he/she will apply the putty-like tooth colored composite material, sculpting it to correct the problem areas. Several layers of the composite material may be necessary in order to achieve the best results. To cure and harden the material, a high-intensity light or a chemical agent may be used. Finally, your dentist will smooth and polish your tooth to give it an even, natural contour.

• Post-Op Recovery / Time Back to Work

  After your teeth have been prepared and before your permanent veneers have been applied, appearance should be fairly normal. Some sensitivity may be encountered mainly with cold drinks. Using a straw can alleviate this problem.

  During this period, you should brush regularly, as your teeth will be more susceptible to staining. Regular flossing is important, too, since swollen or bleeding gums compromise bonding the veneers on permanently.

  Once your veneers are permanently placed, they will feel like a natural part of your teeth, and you can use them just as you would your regular teeth. However, veneers are not indestructible. To protect your veneers from chipping, avoid biting down into hard substances. Slice apples before eating them. Avoid bad habits like chewing on fingernails, pencils, or paperclips and clenching or grinding your teeth.

• Recovery

  For several weeks after the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity in the treated tooth, but this should diminish with time.

  To maintain the results achieved by this procedure, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. Follow these steps to care for your teeth after bonding:

  * Keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing regularly.

  * Schedule regular professional cleanings by your dentist or dental hygienist.

  * Use gentle toothpastes that are safe for bonded teeth. Ask your dentist for recommendations.

  * Slice hard foods like apples and carrots before eating them.

  * Avoid chewing on hard objects like fingernails, pencils, or paperclips.

• Risk & Limitations

  The risks involved in the procedure include the removal of too much enamel, subjecting the tooth to a greater chance of breakage or decay, or the reappearance of the problem if it is due to grinding of the teeth. However, seeing an experienced cosmetic dentist virtually eliminates these risks.

The information provided on surgeryBA.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship between a patient and his/her physician. Individual results may vary according to each patient's individual objectives, health, and circumstances. The information provided here stems from our professional experience with patients and from our doctor's advise.