If you avoid smiling because of a small chip, crack or other flaw, dental bonding may be the solution you need to proudly and confidently show off your pearly whites to the world. Dental bonding is a versatile treatment that uses tooth-colored, durable resin material to address various cosmetic imperfections including chips, cracks, gaps and misshapen teeth. If you’re looking for a quick and cost-effective way to enhance your smile, Dr. Julie Spaniel and the trusted team at Summerwood Aesthetic Dentistry encourage you to learn more about dental bonding.
Summerwood Aesthetic Dentistry has treated many patients, each with their own dental needs and goals. We can perform dental bonding as a standalone procedure or as part of a smile makeover. No matter what your smile goals are, we have the tools, knowledge and skill to make them a reality.
Can You Benefit from Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a quick and easy way to transform the appearance of your smile. The procedure can reshape your teeth so they look straighter and more evenly sized. It can also be used to fill in gaps between teeth so your smile looks more complete. Or, it can brighten your smile by hiding unattractive stains or tooth discoloration.
Before recommending dental bonding, our team will meet with you to make sure the procedure is right for you. We will evaluate your teeth, and discuss your concerns and goals. Depending on the information we gather, we may recommend dental bonding alone or in conjunction with another procedure. In any case, your treatment plan will be tailored to match your unique specifications. Our goal is to give you a smile that is both attractive and natural-looking.
Dental Bonding Procedure
Dental bonding is a quick treatment that can usually be performed in one visit. The duration of treatment depends on how many teeth are being bonded.
Prior to treatment, we will use a shading guide to find the shade of resin that most blends in with your natural teeth. We will then place a rubber shield to isolate your gums from your teeth. Next, we will prepare your teeth so they can receive the bonding material. This is done by applying a gentle phosphoric acid solution onto the tooth enamel. We will then apply the resin to the teeth and sculpt it to the desired shape and size. The resin will be hardened and bonded into place using an ultraviolet light or laser. Once the resin has hardened, we will buff and polish the material so it matches the translucent quality of your natural teeth.
With proper care, dental bonding can last for many years. You should avoid eating hard or sticky foods, or chewing on foods and objects that can crack the resin material. Teeth grinding and clenching should also be avoided.
Benefits of Dental Bonding
Some of the benefits that Dr. Spaniel’s patients enjoy with dental bonding include:
- Correcting a chipped or cracked tooth
- Widening teeth to minimize the space between teeth
- Whitening discolored teeth
- Adding length to short teeth
- Protecting tooth roots that are exposed by receding gums
- An inexpensive cosmetic dentistry option
Caring for Your Teeth After Bonding
With good care, dental bonding lasts about five to 10 years. Although bonding is less durable than other cosmetic and restorative treatments, the lower cost often makes it the most appealing option. Bonding can safely be repeated later to maintain the cosmetic improvements.
To maximize the amount of time between bonding treatments, Dr. Spaniel suggests that you avoid chewing on hard, inedible objects like pens and fingernails since they can cause the resin to crack. If your resin does develop a sharp edge from breaking, schedule an appointment so Dr. Spaniel can smooth down the resin.
Because resin is more vulnerable to staining than natural teeth, you may also want to limit your consumption of beverages that are associated with staining, such as coffee, wine, and cola. Smoking cigarettes can also stain. Brushing your teeth can help to maintain your desired color. Keep in mind that teeth whitening treatments will have no effect on resin.
Dental Bonding FAQs
Does dental bonding hurt?
Dental bonding is a very gentle treatment. There is usually no need to numb your mouth because bonding is an external procedure that does not impact the nerves inside your teeth. While you may notice slight sensitivity for a day or two after bonding, you should not experience any significant discomfort.
Will bonding match the color of my other teeth?
Composite resin is blended to match the color of your teeth so that it cannot be spotted in your mouth. Dr. Spaniel will confirm that it matches the teeth well before completing the treatment.
What is the price of dental bonding?
The cost of treatment generally depends on the cosmetic issue being addressed and the number of teeth treated with bonding. Our office can provide a quote when you come for a consultation. Dental insurance does not typically cover dental bonding since it is cosmetic in nature.
What risks are associated with dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a non-invasive procedure, which means it poses no significant risks. Bonding can be removed at any time and does not make any permanent changes to your teeth, unlike other cosmetic and restorative dental procedures.
How soon after getting dental bonding can I eat and drink?
Waiting is not necessary. The bonding process helps to secure the composite resin to your teeth quickly, so you can start eating and drinking as soon as your appointment is finished. Since your teeth may have slight sensitivity, you may wish to avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages to avoid triggering this sensitivity.
Is there a more durable alternative to dental bonding?
For longer-lasting cosmetic changes to your teeth, you may be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Veneers affix to the front of your natural teeth to give the precise appearance you wish. Veneers can be applied to a single tooth or an entire row of teeth.
Learn More about Dental Bonding
Are you interested in finding out if dental bonding can transform your smile? Schedule a personal consultation with Summerwood Aesthetic Dentistry today. Contact our Portland dental office by calling or emailing us today.