Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that is used by dentists in a variety of ways to repair, protect or enhance the natural beauty of teeth. Bonding sometimes, but not always, requires the targeted tooth to be prepped before the procedure can be completed. In many instances, very little prep is needed, and the procedure can be carried out without anesthesia.
Tooth-colored composite material is used in many dental restorations. This is a combination of glass or ceramic and plastic resin. For many decades these materials have been used in the restoration of anterior teeth in particular, and more recently as fillings for posterior teeth as well. The composite is bonded to the natural tooth. Bonding agents used in the process form an integrated seal with the tooth, providing a stronger, more durable restoration.
Bonding is also used in repairing cracked or chipped teeth. In simple cases, when a part of a tooth has been broken off, the bonding agent acts as a “super glue” to put the tooth back together again. The chemistry of the bonding agent and tooth structure make the bond permanent and durable.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is also used as a cosmetic procedure to enhance the natural beauty of a tooth or teeth. In this area, bonding can be used to alter or improve the shape of a tooth. Shorter teeth can be made to appear longer, and small unsightly gaps between teeth can be closed by widening adjacent teeth with bonding material.
Sometimes bonding is also used as a method to make a tooth or teeth appear whiter. If a tooth is permanently discolored and unresponsive to whitening agents, dental bonding may be used as a cover to make the tooth look whiter.
Dental bonding has many uses for restoring, repairing, protecting and enhancing the teeth. Find out more about this process and how it can help your teeth look better. Contact Engineered Smiles and schedule an appointment today.
