What Is Tooth Bonding?

Tooth bonding is exactly what is sounds like: your teeth getting together for a night out on the town and really enjoying some time together.

Just kidding! Dental bonding is actually the process of attaching a tooth-colored resin to your existing teeth in order to fill in chips, cracks, fractures, and even large gaps. The reason it’s called bonding is because the resin actually bonds to your teeth to create a semi-permanent solution.

Bonding is predominantly used in aesthetic procedures and does not require the use of anesthesia. Bonding can usually be done in one office visit and is a terrific cost-effective alternative to veneers. Bonding can also be used in applications such as covering the root of a tooth in the case of a receding gum line.

The bonding process is fairly straight forward. The dentist will first match the color of your teeth, then make slight etches onto your tooth to increase the bond. Then the dentist will apply the resin to your teeth, which will appear to be like putty. After that, the dentist will form the resin around your teeth to create a natural and well-shaped look.

Once the resin is shaped, the dentist will apply an ultraviolet light to the resin to harden and bond the resin to the existing teeth. Once the resin has sufficiently hardened, the dentist will then continue to trim and shape the resin so that it looks as natural as possible. Finally, the dentist the will polish the resin to match the color of the existing tooth to ensure that there is no noticeable difference between the resin and the actual tooth.

Resin is strong, but not as strong as your natural teeth. Try to refrain from chewing on mints, candy, ice, or anything that is not easily chewed. Also, attempt to stay away from liquids that can stain your teeth such as coffee, dark sodas, or spirits. Be sure to maintain healthy oral habits such as brushing daily and flossing. Also, be sure to schedule regular cleanings and checkups to make sure everything is holding up as it should.

For more information on bonding or other cosmetic dentistry services, contact Dr. Maxwell of Crestwood Dental today at (314) 463-5655 or fill out our simple form.

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