Dental bonding is one of the many options for a smile makeover. This treatment is used to address cracked, chipped, or broken teeth. It can also be used for concerns with gaps between teeth, discoloration, or uneven lengths among the teeth. Bonding requires a dental professional, but it is one of the more efficient cosmetic services offered. Some procedures can be completed in as little as one office visit. A smile can be completely transformed by this composite resin.
Bonding is not the same as an implant or crown, which means those who have lost teeth or who have teeth that are severely decayed and damaged are not good candidates for bonding. Implants or crowns would be more suitable makeover options in these cases. For those who have considered teeth whitening services, bonding may need to be postponed until after the teeth are whitened. The bonding agent will not lighten along with the natural color of the teeth, leaving a noticeable difference between the bonding agent and the rest of the teeth.
Patients who have tooth roots that are in good condition and who have a significant amount of the tooth enamel intact are good candidates for bonding. Patients who have cracks, chips, or discoloration or who want to fix aesthetic problems from a large gap in the teeth typically find an effective smile makeover solution in dental bonding. In some cases, bonding can address the unique problems of misshapen teeth, teeth that seem to be too short, or teeth that have minor decay that should be filled.
As a makeover solution, this treatment does not usually involve a lengthy schedule of appointments and in-depth oral care. For many, this is a simple procedure that can be done in one office visit with minimal discomfort and inconvenience. Slight complications like a tooth that is chipped near the nerve could make the process a little bit more involved, but a dentist can advise on the specifics of this possibility.
The first step involves the dentist selecting a color for the composite resin that forms the bonding. Using a chart, the color will be selected to carefully match the tone of the natural teeth and enhance the smile. Once the color match is complete, the tooth is prepared. The dentist will roughen the exterior surface of the tooth to create better contact for the bonding agent. When satisfied, the dentist applies a conditioning agent before applying the colored bonding putty. The dentist shapes and molds the resin before hardening it with a laser or blue light.
The resin used in the bonding is durable, but take care to avoid chewing on things like foreign objects or ice cubes. Minimize chewing hard candies or tough, crunchy foods in excess as well. Biting with full force on any type of hard surface can damage the bonding material, resulting in the need for repair.
Tooth grinding or clenching, a condition known as bruxism, can be extremely harmful to your dental health. This habit can wear down the surfaces of the teeth and may eventually lead to serious tooth damage, such as cracks, chips, or breaks. While the resin is a strong and durable material, it is not as durable as natural tooth enamel, so dental bonding is even more susceptible to damage from bruxism. If you have this issue, talk with your dentist before you begin any type of smile restoration. It is important to treat bruxism first so that any future dental work will last longer.
Bonding can stain over time, so follow good oral hygiene practices and keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing daily. Take care when consuming foods or beverages that can stain surfaces, such as coffee, beets, or red wine. If you do consume these options, brush or rinse as soon as possible to help prevent discoloration.
Smoking and tobacco use can also stain dental bonding treatments and should be avoided completely. While alcohol consumption is considered acceptable in moderation, too much can weaken the materials used in dental bonding. Do not use an alcohol-based mouthwash daily and keep drinking to a minimum to prolong the life of the treatment.
With dental bonding, a smile makeover could take place in a single office visit. Talk to a dental professional about the options available.
Request an appointment here: https://jonesfamilydentists.com or call Jones Family Dental at (281) 377-6651 for an appointment in our Houston office.
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