Dental bonding is a procedure in which a durable plastic material is applied to one or more teeth in an effort to restore or improve a person’s smile. A visit to your cosmetic dentist in Yorkville can provide you the opportunity to once again enjoy the confidence and joy a new smile will bring.
Dental bonding is a perfect option to repair dental decay (the bonding resin is the same composite resin used to fill cavities – composite material is an excellent alternative to using amalgam to fill cavities and offers a more aesthetic appearance than the traditional silver); repair cracked or chipped teeth; cover stains or discolored teeth; modify the shape or length of teeth; fill open spaces between teeth; or cover the exposed root surface of a tooth due to gum recession.
Once it has been determined that dental bonding is your best option, your cosmetic dentist selects the best shade of bonding material using a shade guide to most closely match the color of your teeth. Once selected, the dentist will prepare the tooth based on your specific need.
The cosmetic dentist will roughen the surface of the tooth or teeth to be repaired, and apply a conditioning liquid. By doing so, the bonding material will better adhere. The bonding material itself is putty-like allowing the dentist to apply it, mold it and smooth it into the desired shape. The dentist will then apply a special light known as a curing light, or he will use a laser to harden the resin bonding material. After the material is hardened, the dentist can make the needed alterations to achieve the desired appearance. The tooth is then polished to match the surrounding teeth.
Dental bonding is easier and less invasive than veneers or crowns to resolve many dental needs. And although the bonding material is made of a strong resin, it can chip. So it is important to avoid chewing on ice, hard foods and any other items that could chip the dental bonding. Beyond that, bonded teeth do not require any other special care. Excellent oral hygiene including twice daily brushing and flossing and visits to Dr. Nicholas Kemp, your Yorkville dentist, for professional cleanings and exams should allow you to maintain your bonded teeth for many years.