You might have a stained, broken, or chipped tooth and want to know whether tooth bonding is a good choice. If this is the case for you, then you’re at the right place. Read along to learn everything you need to know about tooth bonding.
Tooth bonding is an excellent choice for treating a wide range of dental problems. The answer to the question “Does tooth bonding look natural?” is yes! The tooth bonding material is specifically designed and color-matched to look exactly like your original teeth. In fact, people won’t even notice that you’ve gone through this cosmetic treatment, thanks to modern dentistry!
Let’s understand what tooth bonding is and learn more about the procedure.
What is Tooth Bonding?
Tooth bonding (also known as dental bonding) is a cosmetic procedure that improves teeth’ appearance. This treatment involves the preparation and application of tooth-colored composite resin to your teeth. This resin material is like a dough that can be molded in the desired shape. After applying the material, the dentist hardens it by using a special blue light (UVA).
This procedure is used to treat a chipped tooth, discoloration, and tooth decay. It is also used to treat roots that have receded due to gum disease.
What Does Tooth Bonding Contain?
Tooth bonding is a quick procedure performed at your dentist’s office. It typically requires only one visit if one or a few teeth need improvement.
Your dentist will first apply a gentle phosphoric acid to roughen your teeth’ surface during the procedure. This will help the bonding material to stay in place. Your dentist will then apply the dough-like bonding material to your tooth’s surface and mold it in the desired shape. After that, your dentist will use a UVA light to harden the material. Lastly, the tooth bonding material is polished for a smooth finish to look just like your other teeth.
Maintenance of Tooth Bonding
Since tooth bonding may stain or chip, it requires special care to last long and stay in the best condition. Following are the tips that can help maintain your tooth bonding.
- Limit consuming foods that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine.
- If you are a smoker, it’s time to quit the habit.
- Avoid chewing hard objects, like ice, nails, pencils, etc.
- Call your dentist when you notice sharp edges. Your dentist can easily repair them!
Some Pros and Cons of Tooth Bonding
Like any other procedure, tooth bonding also has certain advantages and disadvantages that you should know.
Pros:
- Tooth bonding is a procedure that will give you an attractive smile while staying under your budget.
- This procedure is quick and can be done in a single visit.
- It is a minimally invasive procedure and requires only the least amount of enamel removal.
Cons:
- The bonding material can stain over time if not taken care of.
- The material isn’t as strong and durable as porcelain veneers and crowns. Tooth bonding can last anywhere up to 3-7 years with proper care.
Call your dentist!
Now that you understand the procedure and have learned about its pros and cons. If you think tooth bonding is best for you, please feel free to contact Houston Dentistry. Our dentists will evaluate your condition and discuss your preferences. We will then recommend the best solution to your dental problem.
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