Bonding

 
 

Bonding is the application of a tooth-colored composite resin to repair a decayed, chipped, fractured, or discolored tooth.

Unlike veneers, which are manufactured in a laboratory and require a customized mold to achieve a proper fit, bonding can be done in a single visit. The procedure is called bonding because the material bonds to the tooth.

What Is Bonding Used For?

The composite resin used in bonding can be shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth. Often times, bonding is used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a chipped or discolored tooth. Many patients also chose bonding to close spaces between teeth, to make teeth look longer or to change the shape or color of teeth. Consider dental bonding:

  • To improve the appearance of discolored teeth
  • To repair decayed teeth
  • To repair chipped or cracked teeth
  • To elongate or change the shape of teeth
 

Advantages of Bonding:

It's one of the easiest and least expensive cosmetic dental procedures. It can usually be done in one office visit unless several teeth are involved. Unlike veneers and crowns, dental bonding requires minimal removal of tooth enamel.

 

Disadvantages of Bonding:

The material used in bonding does not resist stains as well as crowns. Also bonding is not as strong and does not last as long as other restorative procedures like crowns, fillings, or veneers.

 

How Does Bonding Procedure Work:

Little preparation is needed and anesthetic won't be necessary. You and your dentist will select a composite resin color that matches the rest of your teeth. Once the shade is selected, the surface of the tooth will be etched or roughened to ensure the bonding material adheres to the tooth. Next, the tooth-colored putty-like resin is applied, sculpted, and smoothed to the desired shape. Your dentist will use ultraviolet light to harden the material. Once the material is hardened, your dentist will perfect the shape and then polish your beautiful new tooth to match the sheen of the rest of your teeth. Dental bonding takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.