How Bonding Teeth Gives New Life to a Smile
Dental bonding is a process that involves application of a plastic material to the surface of your teeth. As it hardens, it bonds to the tooth surface and corrects damaged areas and cosmetic flaws. Bonding teeth doesn’t require much preparation or advanced planning. Anesthesia is only needed if the bonding will be used to fill in areas of decay. Your dental provider will utilize a shade guide to match the composite resin to your natural tooth color. Preparation involves roughening the surface of your tooth and applying a conditioner to help the resin bond to it. The putty-like bonding substance is then sculpted into the desired shape on the tooth surface. A special light is used to harden or bond the new material. Finally, your dentist will shape and polish the bonding to blend in seamlessly with the rest of your tooth.
What Problems Can Teeth Bonding Correct?
- Tooth decay
- Teeth that look too short
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Amalgam filling replacement
- Misshapen teeth
- Spaces between teeth
- Exposed tooth roots due to gum recession
Bonding Teeth: Pros and Cons
Bonding is an easy and relatively inexpensive option for correcting cosmetic issues. Crowns and veneers often require the help of an off-site dental lab, but bonding can usually be accomplished in one office visit. Anesthesia is rarely required, and less of your tooth’s enamel is removed in the process when compared to other restorations.
Although it does offer some degree of stain resistance, bonding material stains more easily than crowns. Composite resin used in bonding doesn’t last as long as veneers, crowns, or fillings, and it may be prone to chipping or breaking. Bonding is often considered an excellent option for correcting small defects in teeth not subject to high bite pressure.
Dental Care After Bonding Teeth
Good oral hygiene is all you need to maintain your dental bonding. Brush twice daily, and floss every day. Basic, affordable dental care can help you keep your bonded teeth in top condition for up to ten years. See your dentist regularly for touch-ups and routine exams.
To learn about our family dentistry practice in Maryland, call Dental One Associates of Maryland today at or make an appointment.
Dental One Associates offers affordable family dentistry and gentle, compassionate dental care in Maryland. With 11 affiliated practices throughout Maryland, our offices are conveniently located with extended hours to meet your needs. At Dental One Associates of Maryland, we provide most dental services, from basic preventative care and general dentistry to specialized procedures and complete dental reconstruction. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer affordable financial solutions for any budget. Patient satisfaction is our top priority and we strive to provide the exceptional, affordable dental care and personal touch that lead to lasting relationships. A smiling patient is our greatest reward and we look forward to keeping those smiles healthy, beautiful, and bright. Discover an affordable dentist who truly cares at Dental One Associates of Maryland.
