Composite Bonding

What are some of the most common benefits of dental bonding?

In dental bonding, a composite resin material is applied to the tooth and then sculpted and shaped to cover damaged areas or to fill in gaps. This material comes in several shades so it can be matched to the natural color of your tooth. Bonding usually requires only one visit, so it is less time-consuming and less expensive than other tooth restoration methods.
If you’re considering dental bonding, the following information will provide you with a good introduction to the procedure. For more detailed information about how this procedure will help you, we recommend that you consult a cosmetic dentist with experience in dental bonding.

How is dental bonding performed?

The dentist will prepare your tooth for treatment by roughening and shaping or contouring the surface. Next he/she will apply a conditioning solution and bonding agent that together act as a strong adhesive or glue, to ensure that the composite will adhere. Next, he/she will apply the putty-like tooth colored composite material, sculpting it to correct the problem areas. Several layers of the composite material may be necessary in order to achieve the best results. To cure and harden the material, a high-intensity light or a chemical agent may be used. Finally, your dentist will smooth and polish your tooth to give it an even, natural contour.

How long does it take?

Except in complicated cases, bonding can be accomplished in one visit. The length of the visit will depend on the condition of your teeth and on how much repair work you are having done.

Where is the procedure performed?

This procedure is done in your dentist’s office.

How much pain is there?

The procedure is virtually pain-free, although you may experience some discomfort during the tooth-roughening phase.

What can I expect after dental bonding?

For several weeks after the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity in the treated tooth, but this should diminish with time.

To maintain the results achieved by this procedure, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. Follow these steps to care for your teeth after bonding:

• Keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing regularly.
• Schedule regular professional cleanings by your dentist or dental hygienist.
• Use gentle toothpastes that are safe for bonded teeth. Ask your dentist for recommendations.
• Slice hard foods like apples and carrots before eating them.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like fingernails, pencils, or paperclips.

Ideal candidate:

In general, the best candidates for composite bonding:

• Enjoy good oral health
• Are in good physical health
• Do not smoke
• Want to improve their appearance
• Are well informed in regard to the procedure’s outcome
• Have realistic expectations

The above is only a partial list of the criteria that your dentist will consider in determining whether or not this procedure is appropriate for you. Be sure to ask your dentist if he / she considers you an ideal candidate for dental bonding.

Other important information:

Bonding is appropriate for correcting minor imperfections. If you have structural problems with a tooth or problems with multiple teeth, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers or another tooth restoration procedure.

Risks and Limitations:

Since the mouth contains many kinds of bacteria and experiences many temperature and/or pressure changes everyday, It is important to follow good oral hygiene and keep your teeth as clean as possible. In order to minimize these risks, it is important that you follow all of your dentist’s instructions, both before and after the procedure.

Frequently Asked Question