One can undergo various cosmetic procedures to enhance their smile, one of which is dental bondings/fillings. This piece covers more details about this process, including how it works, why one should get it, the costs associated, and more. Read on!
While there are different cosmetic dental procedures like crowns and veneers, dental bondings/fillings are a great choice because they’re inexpensive, meaning almost anyone can afford them. It can be used to alter the shape of teeth, enhance teeth color, close down gaps, and repair chips.
Tooth bonding is a procedure done by the dentist whereby a tooth-colored composite resin is applied to one or more teeth to alter their appearance. Unlike other dental procedures, tooth bonding is less complicated and, in most cases, doesn’t require anesthesia unless a cavity is involved.
The dentist begins by choosing a composite resin color that matches the teeth’s color with the help of a shade guide. The tooth’s surface is then roughened before applying the liquid needed for the bonding agent to stick to the tooth. Lastly, the dentist places the composite resin on the surface of the liquid, shapes the tooth appropriately, and hardens the material using UV light.
After dental bonding, one should maintain proper oral hygiene to preserve the new look and keep the mouth healthy. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing them once is advisable. Regular dental checkups are also necessary.
Tooth bonding is an excellent solution for imperfect and defective teeth. People opt for bonding when repairing cracked, decayed, and discolored teeth. It also helps fill gaps between teeth.
Bonding short teeth can also be made longer so all teeth are the same length.
Tooth bonding takes half to one hour, although it could go on longer for complex procedures.
The procedure typically has zero recovery time meaning patients can resume normal activities immediately after the process.
Dental bondings have their cons compared to other cosmetic procedures. Some advantages of dental bonding include the following:
A disadvantage of dental bonding is that it’s not fully resistant to stains.
The bonding material may also wear out fast compared to crowns and veneers.
Bonding involves using a bonding material applied on the surface of the teeth. On the other hand, veneers come in two forms – porcelain and composite.
Porcelain veneers are thin porcelain shells attached to the front part of teeth. The dentist scrubs off some parts of the enamel while attaching the veneers. These veneers are stain-resistant, last long, and enhance one’s smile.
Composite veneers involve a resin material placed on the tooth’s surface without removing any part of the enamel. Although these veneers may cover minor flaws like cracks, they can’t cover the whole teeth.
Good-looking teeth and a great smile can improve one’s confidence. Any discoloration, gaps, or chipped teeth can be fixed with bonding. One only needs to schedule a consultation with their dentist to discuss the condition’s specifics.
People with broken teeth or anyone wanting a great smile can benefit greatly from tooth bonding. It’s the best option when the problem doesn’t require complete tooth restoration.
The procedure is fast, less invasive, and cost-effective. It’s worth it for anyone looking for something simple and affordable to enhance teeth appearance.
The cost of bidding depends on various aspects, including location, the level of the procedure, and the dentist involved.
One can expect to pay a maximum of around $600. However, this value may vary. Because bonding may need replacement after some years, one should budget for such. Some insurance providers can pay for such procedures, so one should confirm as it can help save on costs.
Dental bonding is relatively safe and has no major risks.
One major problem is that the composite resin used during bonding is weaker than natural teeth, so the material may chip from teeth.
The bonding material also catches stains which means people who smoke and take foods that discolor teeth may have to deal with tooth discoloration.
Proper care can help increase the life of bonded teeth. Here are some care tips for bonded teeth:
