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Everything You Need to Know About Dental Bonding

Posted on: October 23rd, 2023 | Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Bonding

In the realm of cosmetic dentistry, dental bonding stands out as a versatile and effective procedure. Many patients haven’t necessarily heard of this procedure even though it’s simple and used for dental fillings as well as for correcting various cosmetic imperfections. Let’s explore what goes into the dental bonding procedure.

Introduction to Dental Bonding

Dental bonding, also known as tooth bonding, is a procedure where a dentist applies a tooth-colored composite resin to one or more teeth to repair damage. It is called bonding because the material bonds to the tooth.

Applications of Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is predominantly used for cosmetic dentistry to improve the appearance of a discolored or chipped tooth. It can also be utilized to:

  • Close gaps between teeth.
  • Increase the size of a tooth, for example, to make it look longer or to match other teeth.
  • Change the shape of teeth.
  • Protect the root of a tooth that’s exposed due to receding gum lines.

Procedure Overview

The process of dental bonding typically involves:

  • Preparation: Minimal preparation is needed for bonding. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth.
  • Bonding Process: The dentist will match the shade of your existing teeth to select a composite resin color that closely matches. The surface of the tooth will be roughened, and a conditioning liquid applied. The tooth-colored, putty-like resin is then molded and smoothed to the desired shape. The material is hardened with an ultraviolet light or laser.
  • Finishing Touches: After the resin is hardened, the dentist will trim, shape, and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.

Advantages of Dental Bonding

  • Cost-Effective: Dental bonding is among the least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures.
  • Speed: The procedure can typically be completed in one office visit unless multiple teeth are involved.
  • Minimally Invasive: It requires the removal of the least amount of tooth enamel.

Longevity and Care

With proper care, dental bonding can last several years. However, it’s essential to note that bonding materials can chip and may require repair or replacement over time. To maximize the lifespan of dental bonding:

  • Avoid biting on hard objects.
  • Avoid habits such as nail-biting.
  • Maintain regular dental check-ups.

If you are looking for a dentist in downtown DC for dental bonding and cosmetic dentistry, the team at Dental Town DC would be glad to help. Our cosmetic dentists are located in the heart of DC, easily accessible by car and Metro.

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