How Dental Bonding Can Benefit Your Oral Health

Dental bonding is a procedure used by dentists for a variety of repairs and cosmetic treatments. It is usually less expensive and more straightforward than other cosmetic dental treatments. Many people also enjoy that it requires less invasive dental work and provides natural-looking results. It is usually completed in a single appointment, which allows patients to get fast results for a more beautiful and functional smile.

The bonding procedure

Before the dental bonding process, the dentist selects porcelain or composite resin material in a shade that closely matches your teeth. Then the dentist etches the tooth's surface to roughen it and applies a conditioning liquid. These two steps help prepare the surface of the tooth to stick to the resin.

Next, the dentist attaches, or bonds, the material directly to the teeth. The putty-like substance is molded into the correct shape. A laser or ultraviolet light is used to dry the material and adhere it to the tooth's surface.

In the final step, the dentist trims and shapes the hardened resin and polishes it to match the color and texture of your other teeth. The entire dental bonding process takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. You may need to make multiple visits to the dentist if you need to have work done on more than one tooth.

After the procedure, your dentist may ask you to wait 48 hours before drinking coffee, tea, or other foods and drinks that can stain the resin. Ask your dentist if you need to limit your consumption of drinks and foods that can potentially stain the bonding resin.

Avoid chewing your fingernails, pens, ice, candy, or hard foods in the long term. Good oral care is essential, too. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.

Call your dentist if:

• You notice sharp edges on the bonded tooth
• Your teeth do not feel normal when you bite down
• Pieces of resin chip or break off

Oral health benefits of dental bonding

Dental bonding can offer many health benefits for patients needing tooth repair or cosmetic work. Because it does not require the removal of significant amounts of tooth structure, the procedure is not painful.

Filling cavities

Dentists may use composite resins to fill a new cavity. Bonding can also be used to replace an amalgam, or silver, filling for a more natural appearance. Many people also choose to replace metal fillings because these materials can lead to tooth sensitivity or allergic reactions in a few patients. Others prefer to change to a mercury-free option. (It is important to note that the amount of mercury used in amalgam fillings is minimal and considered safe by the Food and Drug Administration.) Overall, resin fillings attached by dental bonding can improve the look and comfort of your teeth.

Fixing irregular teeth

Teeth that are cracked or chipped can be repaired with tooth bonding. A dentist can also change the shape of your teeth or make them look longer, creating a more even and pleasing overall appearance. Composite resins can be used on discolored teeth in a shade that matches the others. This can be a good option for teeth that do not respond to traditional whitening treatments. These teeth are usually grayer in appearance instead of yellow and may have some enamel loss.

Covering roots

Sometimes when gums recede, a portion of the tooth's root can be exposed, causing the patient sensitivity and pain. The dentist can apply resin to protect the root. A dentist will likely recommend additional treatments and lifestyle changes to address gum recession and periodontal disease as well.

Closing gaps between teeth

Dental bonding is a quick method of fixing gaps between teeth. This application is often cosmetic, but wide gaps between teeth can accumulate food and plaque and cause tooth decay and gingivitis if the space is not cleaned correctly. The results can give patients more confidence and can even make it easier to prevent tooth decay.

Conclusion

Dental bonding can be an inexpensive and simple way to repair common tooth issues and restore your smile. In most cases, the procedure is quick, especially if you only need one tooth repaired. With proper care and good habits, this type of treatment can last for many years. Talk to your dentist to find out if dental bonding can benefit your oral health.

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