Looking For A Quick Transformation Of Your Smile? Try Dental Bonding
Posted on: 10 June 2015
Looking to improve your smile on a budget or in a short time frame? Dental bonding might be just what the dentist ordered. Repairing damaged teeth with dental bonding is a growing alternative to many restorative procedures.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure involving an appropriately-colored composite resin applied to the visible portion of a tooth (or teeth) to improve its appearance or protect the tooth. The resin, which is a tough plastic material that can be molded and shaped as needed, is hardened in place using an ultraviolet light or laser.
Because it can be done in the office during a single visit, bonding is generally less expensive and less time-consuming than veneers or crowns. It also can often be completed without the use of anesthesia.
What Is it Best For?
Bonding is an excellent option to quickly and easily make cosmetic adjustments without long, expensive dental work. It can be used to:
- Repair chipped or cracked teeth
- Close spaces between teeth
- Improve discolored teeth
- Correct the shape of teeth
- Fill cavities and repair decayed teeth
- Protect exposed roots due to receding gums
What to Keep in Mind
Bonding material is not as durable as natural teeth, so habits such as biting fingernails or chewing on ice can result in chips and cracks. It's also best to avoid food and drink that are likely to stain the bonded material. Bonding is generally considered a short-term solution for temporary repairs and cosmetic changes. The material doesn't last as long as crowns and fillings, but can serve to improve your appearance and delay more expensive procedures in the interim.
Working With the Dentist
To determine if bonding is right for you, meet with your dentist for a consultation. He or she will take x-rays and perform an examination to evaluate what dental problems can be easily solved with bonding and what issues may require a more thorough restorative procedure.
After the bonding appointment, continue to practice normal, regular dental hygiene that includes twice daily brushing and flossing. Routine check-ups and dental cleanings will help your dentist monitor the bonded teeth and maintain your improved appearance.
For patients who want or need a quick 'makeover' of their smiles, bonding can be an appealing solution. If you can't afford the time or money necessary for some procedures, make an appointment to talk to your dentist about dental bonding and what it might be able to do for you.
To learn more, contact a cosmetic dentistry office like Dansville Family Dental Care.
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