Dental bonding is a fairly common procedure that many people have done to their teeth. If your dentist has mentioned this procedure, you probably have some questions about it. Learn what dental bonding is and how it is used. It is also important to find a good dentist who can perform the dental bonding.
Dental Bonding Explained
This is a procedure in which a tooth colored resin material is applied to your natural teeth. Resin is a durable plastic that is hardened with a special light. This then bonds the material to the tooth. It is done for a number of circumstances, most of which have to do with improving your smile.
One of the most common uses for dental bonding is to repair decayed teeth. Cavities can leave teeth damaged, and dental bonding is often used to fill them. Teeth that have been damaged by other means, such as chipped or cracked, can also be repaired with dental bonding. Aside from repairs, bonding can also be used to adjust the shape of your teeth. For example, gaps can be filled or teeth can be made longer. Teeth that have been discolored can also make use of dental bonding. Additionally, if the root of a tooth has been exposed due to receding gums, this resin can also be used as protection.
Procedure
There isn’t much in terms of preparation that needs to be done. The only time anesthesia is used is when cavities need to be filled, otherwise it is not usually necessary. Nothing needs to be sent out to a lab, the work is all done within the office. This means that in most cases, you will only need one visit. However, if several teeth need to be bonded, then you may need additional visits. Each tooth should take between thirty and sixty minutes to complete.
Your dentist will first match the coloring to your natural teeth. The surface of the tooth will be roughened, and a conditioning solution is then applied. This is done in order to help the resin achieve a strong bond to your natural teeth.
At this point the resin is putty-like and ready to be applied to your teeth. It is then molded and smoothed out to the right shape. Next, an ultraviolet light is used to harden the resin. Once the resin is hardened, your dentist will make some finishing touches. This usually involves some trimming and shaping. Finally, it will be polished to match the sheen of your natural teeth.
Advantages
One of the main advantages of dental bonding is the simplicity and cost. Everything is done within the office, you do not need to wait for a lab to customize a dental covering. This means fewer visits and almost immediate results. Dental bonding also allows you to keep more of your enamel than veneers or crowns. Many people also prefer to not have anesthesia, which is the case unless you are having a cavity filled. Of all the cosmetic dental procedures, this is the easiest and least expensive.
Finding a Good Dentist
Having a good dentist is key. You want a reputable professional who can address your concerns, perform excellent work, and give you an overall positive experience. You should contact TLC Dentistry in Salinas for treatment. For fifty years Dr. Philip J. Lips and his team have been serving the city of Salinas and the Monterey Peninsula, they have an outstanding reputation and treat their patients like family.
Dental bonding is a relatively common and simple procedure. There are many reasons why someone may need it, such as to repair chipped or broken teeth. The procedure is all done within the office, and you can expect a big change right away. Find a good dentist in order to have a comfortable experience with the most amazing results.