Teeth bonding is a common and versatile cosmetic dental procedure that can repair or improve the appearance of your teeth. For patients who want a quicker and more convenient way to alter their smile, teeth bonding is ideal.
Depending on your desires, Dr. Williamson can work with you to give you the smile you want. Hillsborough Family and Cosmetic Dentistry aims to give our Hillsborough, NC, patients the cosmetic results to benefit their smiles.
Teeth bonding involves the application of tooth-colored composite resin to the surface of the tooth. Dr. Williamson will carefully shape, harden, and polish the resin to match the surrounding teeth. Then, this will provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing result. Teeth bonding can address various dental issues. Additionally, it is a less invasive and more affordable alternative to treatments like porcelain veneers or crowns.
Dental Bonding in Hillsborough, NC
There are some common uses of teeth bonding:
- Repairing chipped or cracked teeth
- Closing gaps and spaces
- Changing tooth shape and size
- Whitening discolored teeth
- Protecting exposed tooth roots
Teeth bonding can provide a quick and effective way to make cosmetic improvements to the teeth without the need for more extensive dental work. One of the advantages of teeth bonding is that it can often be completed in a single dental visit. Therefore, this makes it a convenient option for Hillsborough area patients seeking quick cosmetic improvements.
However, it is important to note that teeth bonding may not be as durable or stain-resistant as other cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers. The lifespan of teeth bonding can vary depending on factors, such as oral hygiene, eating habits, and the location of the bonding. Dr. Williamson can provide guidance on how to care for and maintain bonded teeth.
What to Expect: The Dental Bonding Procedure
The process of teeth bonding is very similar to a simple dental filling. Typically, you will only need one visit to Hillsborough Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. Before you begin the process, you will have a conversation with Dr. Williamson to discuss your dental concerns and cosmetic goals. Dr. Williamson will assess your oral health and examine the affected tooth or teeth.
With teeth bonding, it is a relatively non-invasive procedure that does not often require anesthesia. Dr. Williamson will choose a shade of composite resin that closely matches the color of your natural teeth. Then, he will lightly roughen the surface of your tooth to help the material adhere. This usually does not need to remove a lot of enamel.
After the preparation, Dr. Williamson will apply a bonding agent to help the resin cling to the surface. The composite resin is applied in layers to the tooth. Dr. Williamson carefully sculpts and shapes the resin to achieve the desired size, shape, and appearance.
To harden and set the composite resin, Dr. Williamson will use a special curing light. This step typically only takes a few seconds for each layer of resin. As a result, this ensures that the material is strong and durable. They will trim any excess material and sculpt the resin.
Finally, your dentist will polish the tooth’s surface to give it a smooth and natural finish that closely matches the surrounding teeth.
What are the Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a way that dentists can fix problems with your teeth, like chips or gaps. It is a quick and easy procedure where a tooth-colored material is put on your teeth to make them look better.
Dental bonding is usually less expensive than other options, like dental crowns or porcelain veneers. The dental bonding process will only take your dentist one visit to complete. Another benefit is that Dr. Williamson can match the bonding material to the color of your teeth, so it looks natural.
However, there are also some downsides to dental bonding. One is that its material is not as strong as your natural teeth (or porcelain), so the results may not last as long. You must also be careful with what you eat and drink, as certain things can stain the bonding material. Additionally, bonding may not be the best option for large areas that need fixing, as it may not be as durable.
Dental Bonding FAQs
Teeth bonding is an affordable, versatile treatment many patients are eligible for. Learn more.
How long does dental bonding last?
Dental bonding typically lasts 3 to 10 years, depending on how well it’s cared for. Habits like biting on hard objects, grinding your teeth, or chewing on ice can shorten its lifespan. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help prolong the results. In many cases, bonding can be touched up or redone if needed.
Is dental bonding painful?
No, dental bonding is usually painless and doesn’t require anesthesia unless it is used to fill a decayed tooth. The minimally invasive procedure doesn’t involve removing much of the tooth structure. Patients generally feel comfortable during and after the procedure. Any sensitivity afterward is usually mild and temporary.
Can dental bonding be whitened?
Dental bonding material cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening products. The bonded area may become more noticeable if your natural teeth are whitened. It’s usually best to whiten your teeth before bonding so the resin can match your newly whitened teeth. If discoloration occurs over time, the bonding can be polished or replaced.
Does insurance cover dental bonding?
Insurance coverage for dental bonding varies. If the bonding is done for cosmetic purposes only, it’s usually not covered. However, it may be partially or fully covered if it’s used to fill a cavity or repair damage from trauma. It’s best to check with your dental insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Can children or teens get dental bonding?
Dental bonding is safe and effective for children and teens, especially for repairing chipped teeth or correcting minor cosmetic issues. It’s a conservative treatment that doesn’t involve permanent changes to the tooth. Bonding can also be temporary until a child is old enough for more permanent cosmetic dental work.
Can dental bonding be used on back teeth?
While bonding is typically used on front teeth for cosmetic improvements, it can also be used on back teeth in certain cases. However, back teeth experience more pressure from chewing, so bonding may not last as long. For more durable results on molars, we may recommend other restorative options like fillings or crowns.
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Bonding in Hillsborough, NC
If you would like to learn more about teeth bonding in Hillsborough, NC, contact us today to schedule a consultation. When you are ready, give our dental practice a call at 919-587-8401 or request an appointment online anytime.