Tooth bonding is a versatile and budget-friendly restorative and cosmetic dental solution to several dental problems. Although dental enamel is the strongest substance in the body, it is still susceptible to breaking and cracking. Teeth endure an incredible amount of pressure while chewing (up to 200 pounds!), not to mention what happens when we chew on ice, endure a sports accident, or suffer from teeth grinding. All these things and poor oral hygiene habits weaken and wear down teeth and can lead to breakage. In those instances, dental bonding can be an effective solution.
Reasons for Dental Bonding
Tooth bonding benefits the appearance and health of a smile by repairing chips and cracks that can lead to cavities and gum disease. Dental bonding also improves discoloration, fills gaps, and lengthens shorter teeth.
Benefits of Tooth Bonding
Patients who have damaged teeth are much more likely to suffer from oral health issues and experience tooth loss. Tooth bonding protects teeth from decay, disease, further damage, and tooth loss by sealing up and strengthening the outer part of the tooth.
A beautiful smile also has its benefits. For example, people who are happy with their teeth feel much more confident at home, work, and in social situations. Additionally, these people smile more often which boosts their mood and the mood of those around them!
Downsides to Dental Bonding
There are no major risks to dental bonding, but there are some downsides to this treatment option.
For starters, composite resin isn’t as strong as natural teeth or other dental materials like porcelain or metal. Therefore, the bonding material is likely to break or chip and need to be replaced. To avoid breaks and chips, don’t eat hard candy or crunchy foods and seek treatment for teeth grinding.
Composite resin is also susceptible to discoloration, especially for people who drink a lot of coffee or tea or people who smoke.
The Tooth Bonding Procedure
Patients who need dental bonding can expect to be in and out of the office in under an hour. This is a simple outpatient procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia.
The first step in the tooth bonding procedure is to choose a composite resin color that matches the patient’s natural tooth shade. Once that is determined, the dentist roughens up the tooth’s surface and applies a glue-type agent to create a strong bond between the tooth and composite resin.
Then, the dentist applies the composite resin, shapes it, and, finally, hardens it with an ultraviolet light.
Alternative Treatment Options
Porcelain veneers and dental crowns are suitable alternatives to dental bonding. Patients with cosmetic issues may be candidates for porcelain veneers. These are thin, porcelain shells that cover the front surface of a tooth to hide imperfections.
Dental crowns are necessary when a tooth has endured damage or decay. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over the entire tooth. It can be made from several materials, but most patients prefer resin, porcelain, or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM).
Tooth Bonding and More in Duncan, OK
Have a chipped, cracked, or stained tooth that needs to be restored? Dr. Matthew L. Bridges offers dental bonding, porcelain veneers, and dental crowns for all your oral health needs. To schedule an initial consultation, contact our friendly dental team today at (580) 255-4880.
