What is Dental Bonding ?

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Dental bonding is a simple and cost-effective restorative dental procedure for damaged teeth. It is often used as a solution for teeth that are cracked or discolored, chipping or breaking, or compromised in a number of other ways.

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How Dental Bonding Works

 

Dental bonding is applied directly to the natural tooth. Typically, it does not require sedation or anesthetic. Your dentist will roughen up the surface of the tooth where the bonding will be applied. Once the surface of the tooth is ready, a liquid is applied that will help the resin stick to the tooth.

Once the tooth is prepared, the composite resin is applied to the tooth. Your dentist will need to shape the resin to blend in with your natural tooth. Finally, a special light that uses ultraviolet rays is used to harden the resin quickly. Once the resin is hardened, your dentist may need to shape or smooth out the surface of the resin to ensure it matches the bonded tooth and the surrounding teeth.

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Dental Bonding FAQs

 

How long does dental bonding take?

 

Dental bonding is a procedure that can be completed in a single visit at the general dentist clinic near you. It may take about 30 to 60 minutes to complete the dental bonding, depending on how many teeth are being treated.

 

What is composite resin?

 

Resin is a type of durable  acrylic. Resin is used in dental bonding because it closely mimics the natural appearance of teeth and is resistant to fracturing and damage.

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Will the resin show?

 

Tooth bonding can also be considered a cosmetic dental procedure. Tooth-coloured resin is applied to match the colour of your natural teeth to preserve your smile. In addition to restoring damaged teeth, bonding can also be used to change the shape, length, or spacing of the teeth for aesthetic purposes.

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Is dental bonding the best choice for me?

 

When it comes to restoring the look of your teeth, bonding is often a non-invasive and a conservative alternative to more invasive techniques. For example, less tooth enamel needs to be removed for dental bonding than for procedures such as porcelain veneers or crowns.

However, depending on the state of your teeth, the location of the damage, and your ultimate goals for restoration, your dentist may recommend other procedures. Some dentists consider dental bonding as a good solution for small or short-term cosmetic changes but may recommend other procedures for long-term treatment options.

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Is there a recovery period?

 

Dental bonding typically does not require any recovery, especially if an anesthetic has not been used. You can usually return to your typical routine right after your appointment.

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Are there any risks with dental bonding?

 

There are very few risks associated with dental bonding. The bonding material may separate from your tooth or may become chipped, especially over time. Since resin can become stained more easily than your natural teeth, activities like drinking coffee and wine or smoking may cause some discoloration on the bonding. Depending on your habits and lifestyle, you may need to have dental bonding replaced from anywhere between three and ten years.

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How can I care for my teeth after dental bonding?

 

In most cases, you won’t need to do anything special after bonding aside from following a regular oral hygiene routine. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly and visit your dentist and oral hygienist regularly to monitor your oral health.