Tooth bonding or dental bonding is one of the least expensive and easiest procedures in cosmetic dentistry. In this process, a tooth-colored resin material is applied, and then using a special light, it is hardened. This eventually bonds that material to the tooth and helps in improving and restoring your smile. Marietta, GA Dentists Dr. Michael H. Mulkey recommend this procedure to enhance the appearance of chipped or discolored teeth.
Why Tooth Bonding?
There are several reasons why you should consider tooth bonding, including:
- Repairing decayed teeth
- Repairing cracked or chipped teeth
- Improving discolored teeth
- Closing spaces or gaps between the teeth
- Making the teeth appear longer
- Changing the teeth’s shape
- Using as an amalgam fillings’ alternative
- Protecting a certain section of the tooth’s root which has been exposed due to gum receding
Procedure
If you have decided to opt for tooth bonding, the first thing you must do is to book an appointment with Drs. Mulkey for a consultation where you can discuss the procedure and treatment goals.
- A shade guide will be used to pick the right composite resin color which matches your teeth or tooth’s color most closely.
- When the color has been selected, the dentist will etch your tooth’s surface slightly in order to roughen it. Afterwards, the tooth will be lightly coated with conditioning liquid. This will assist the bonding material to adhere.
- Once the tooth has been prepared, the tooth colored putty like resin will be applied. It will be smoothed and molded to achieve the right shape. The material is then hardened via a laser or ultraviolet light.
- After it hardens, the material will be further shaped, trimmed, and then polished till it matches the shine of the rest of your teeth.
- This entire process typically takes up to 30 to 60 minutes to complete. If you want more than one tooth done, then you might have to schedule additional visits or more time.
Care
Bonded teeth don’t require any special care. You only have to follow the usual dental hygiene practices like brushing teeth twice a day, flossing at least once every day, and going for regular dental checkups. This will keep your bonded teeth neat and clean. However, the bonding material used in this process can chip which is why it is essential to avoid certain habits like using your teeth as an opener, chewing on hard food objects like ice or chewing on pens, or biting your nails.
If you start noticing sharp edges on your bonded tooth, get an odd feeling while biting down, or have any other dental health concerns, immediately consult Drs. Mulkey in their Marietta, GA dentist office.