Dental Bonding

Dental bonding (also known as composite or tooth bonding) is a cosmetic procedure used in dentistry in which a composite resin (tooth-colored) material is applied to the tooth surface and hardened with a special light that ultimately “bonds” the material to the tooth. This high-density, durable plastic material is used to restore or improve a person’s smile. Bonding is an alternative to veneers that can be used for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or misarranged.

Tooth Bonding is an Option That can be Considered:

To repair decayed teeth
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
To protect a portion of the tooth’s root that has been exposed when gums recede

Bonding Procedure And Considerations

The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. The composite resin is then applied and sculpted into the desired shape by Dr. Hoffman. Once the resin is hardened by the special light activation, it is then contoured (trimmed), smoothed, and polished to a natural appearance.

The bonding procedure using direct composites is completed in a single visit and normally requires minimal preparation of the tooth structure.

Bonding is among the less difficult and least expensive of all cosmetic dental procedures and can significantly improve the appearance of a tooth and your smile.

Although the material used in bonding is somewhat stain resistant, it does not resist stains as well as crowns. Also, since the resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely to chip or break than natural teeth.

The longevity of direct bonding depends on the individual’s ability to care for it. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before repair is needed; although, there are many instances where it will last for many years before repair is required.