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Five Facts About Dental Bonding to Know

Five Facts About Dental Bonding to Know

September 19, 2022

When you have imperfections like cracks, chips, and discoloration, it can make it hard for you to show off your smiles. Fortunately, we have several treatments like teeth bonding that you can use to repair these imperfections and improve your smile.

Composite bonding is the use of resin material applied on the teeth and hardened by the laser light to improve the appearance of your smile.

Here are five facts to know about before getting dental bonding in Berlin and Cromwell, CT.

1.Teeth Bonding Fixes Multiple Dental Problems

The dentist can recommend bonding over other procedures to correct a variety of problems like:

  • Tooth decay. Composite bonding can be used as an alternative to amalgam fillings in repairing cavities.
  • Teeth discoloration. For mild teeth stains, professional teeth whitening is used to bleach the teeth. However, when you have severe stains, the dentist may recommend bonding instead.
  • Chipped and cracked teeth
  • Close spaces between your teeth. If you have minor spaces in your mouth, teeth bonding for gaps may be suitable. However, when these gaps are larger and cause misalignment, the braces may work best.
  • Short and uneven teeth

When you have gum recession due to periodontal disease, the dentist may use dental bonding as part of your gum treatment. Composite bonding can protect part of the exposed root to shield against tooth sensitivity and discomfort.

2.The Application Process is Relatively Fast

The bonding process is done in one dental visit and can last between 30 to 60 minutes. The process begins with the examination and cleaning of the teeth and gums. If there is decay, the dentist will first remove it before bonding your teeth.

The teeth need little preparation to make it easy for the bonding material to stick to the enamel. A conditioning liquid is applied to the teeth to roughen them before applying. The process is pain-free and anesthesia is not used unless the damage is near the nerves.

The composite material is applied to the teeth and shaped to the precise shape. The dentist will use a blue light to harden the material and trim the excess. Finally, the teeth are polished to resemble the other teeth.

3.The Process Can Be Reversed

Dental bonding is reversible as the teeth are not trimmed out. Veneers and crowns require the enamel to be reshaped to make room for restoration. However, this process is irreversible, meaning you will need to use the veneers and crowns.

If you want to remove the bonded material and change the treatment, the dentist can take it off without damaging your teeth.

4.Bonded Teeth Need Care

Bonded teeth can last for five to seven years with proper care. It is important to care for your teeth both natural and bonded to make them strong and healthy. The composite material can crack and chip and that’s why you need to avoid using your teeth as tools. Also, do not bite hard objects, ice, or fingernails.

The composite material can stain and it is vital to avoid taking staining foods like coffee, wine, and tea. These foods can cause the teeth to discolor and stain. Remember, once your bonded teeth are stained, you cannot change the color and the dentist will have to replace the material.

5.Bonding is Used a Short-Term Treatment

Although dental bonding is effective in covering cracks and chips, the material used is not as durable as the veneers and crowns. Also, the material can crack, chip, and stain, which makes them less suitable for severe dental problems.

Composite material is not as durable and therefore the treatment is only used to correct minor dental imperfections.

Is Dental Bonding Covered by Insurance?

Most dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic dental procedures such as bonding. However, some can cover the cost partially if the bonding is part of your restoration treatment. It is important to consult your dentist on the cost of dental bonding before getting the procedure.

Schedule your appointment today!