Did you know that a recent survey showed at least 57% of people in the US cover up their smiles when they laugh? Damage to your teeth due to cavities and accidents can really impact how you feel in your day-to-day life. Cosmetic procedures like dental bonding are affordable, quick, and can make a significant difference in the overall appearance of your teeth.
If you’ve been thinking about getting dental bonding, it’s essential to understand what it entails. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect during your appointment.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about dental bonding and how it can improve your smile!
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a common cosmetic dentistry procedure that uses a durable material called composite resin to repair damage to your teeth. The resin is also tooth-colored, and it enhances the appearance of your smile.
In fact, this composite resin is also used in other dental procedures, such as cavity fillings and to protect tooth roots.
What Can Dental Bonding Treat?
Dental bonding can be used to correct chipped or cracked teeth and other dental issues that include:
- Cover up tooth discoloration
- Close gaps or spaces between your teeth
- Change the shape of your teeth
- Make your teeth appear longer
Benefits of Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic procedure with many advantages you’ll enjoy.
First, it improves your appearance in a natural way. Other people won’t notice the difference, but you’ll feel much more confident about your smile.
Also, dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t require much tooth alteration. Other procedures like dental crowns and veneers require enamel removal, which changes your teeth permanently.
Not only is dental bonding more affordable than other cosmetic dental procedures, but it also hides a lot of tooth imperfections. Cracks, chips, and stains from years of coffee drinking can easily be concealed.
While other procedures take multiple visits, you can typically get bonding done in just one visit to the dentist. You’ll have a new and improved smile in less than an hour.
Finally, dental bonding is a very safe procedure and doesn’t negatively affect your dental health or overall health in any way.
What Happens Before a Dental Bonding Procedure?
You’ll meet with your dentist first to discuss your goals and how you would like to see your smile. Next, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums and typically take x-rays.
Your dentist will need to evaluate you for tooth decay, gum disease, or other serious dental problems to ensure you’re healthy enough for a dental bonding procedure.
What Happens During a Dental Bonding Procedure?
First, your dentist will use a shade guide to find the composite resin material that exactly matches the color of your teeth.
Next, your dentist will roughen the surface of your tooth and apply a special conditioning material that helps the resin adhere properly to the tooth. When the resin material is applied, it’s like a thick putty, and your dentist will mold it until it reaches the correct shape for your tooth.
The composite resin will then need to be cured or hardened under a special light which will bond the material to the surface of your tooth. After this, your dentist will make any necessary final adjustments and polish your tooth until it has a natural shine.
Most of the time, dental bonding doesn’t require any anesthesia and isn’t painful since nothing touches the nerve inside your tooth. The entire procedure takes anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour, but if you’re having multiple teeth done, you’ll most likely need more than one appointment.
How Do I Care for My Teeth After Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding doesn’t need any recovery time, and you’ll be able to resume your normal activities after your appointment.
Bonded teeth should feel comfortable and natural. If you notice any sharp edges or anything that feels unusual when you bite down after your procedure, make sure to contact your dentist right away.
Dental bonding can last up to 10 years with proper dental care, so you’ll need to ensure you take care of your oral health after the procedure. You’ll need to practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once daily. You’ll also need to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings at least twice a year.
Bonding material can stain over time, so be conscious of how often you drink substances that can stain your teeth, such as coffee. To avoid this, rinse your mouth with water after consuming anything staining or acidic.
It’s also important to realize that the resin material can chip just like your natural teeth. Therefore, you’ll need to take steps to protect your dental bonding, such as:
- Try not to eat hard or chewy candies
- Don’t chew on ice
- Don’t pick at the bonding material in any way
- Avoid biting your fingernails or chewing on hard objects like pen caps
- Wear a mouthguard if you’re playing contact sports
- Prevent teeth grinding at night by wearing a night guard
Ask Your Versailles Family Dentist About Dental Bonding
Now that you know more about dental bonding, you can take the next steps to bring your confident smile back.
If you’re searching Google for a local dentist near me, look no further than Versailles Family Dentistry. We offer general and cosmetic dental services and are dedicated to helping you improve your overall dental health.
We offer up-to-date technology, flexible scheduling, and a warm and inviting environment that makes you feel right at home.
Make sure you contact us today and schedule a consultation to learn about your dental bonding options!