Dental bonding, a versatile and popular cosmetic dentistry procedure, has transformed smiles and restored confidence for countless patients at Storts Family Dentistry. It is a non-invasive treatment that involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to repair teeth, enhancing their appearance and functionality. Our talented cosmetic dentists can perform the procedure in a single visit, making it a good option if you need a quick fix. We offer teeth bonding in Madill and Ardmore, OK for patients who need treatment for minor cosmetic imperfections and tooth damage.
What is Dental Bonding?
Teeth bonding, also known as composite bonding or dental bonding, is a cosmetic dentistry procedure where your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin material to your tooth. They will shape the material to hide imperfections, and the material will blend in with your tooth. This procedure is commonly used to repair minor to moderately chipped or damaged teeth. Various dental issues we often treat with teeth bonding include:
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Teeth bonding can repair minor chips and cracks, restoring the tooth’s shape and functionality.
- Gaps between Teeth: A dentist can apply the bonding material to close small gaps, providing a more uniform smile.
- Discoloration: Teeth bonding effectively covers stains and discoloration, enhancing the tooth’s appearance.
- Misshapen or Short Teeth: Dental bonding can reshape teeth, making them more aesthetically pleasing and proportionate.
- Tooth Decay: For a tooth that suffers from decay, we may use some bonding material to restore the tooth.
Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding Compared to Other Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures
There are several pros and cons to choosing teeth bonding. Your dentist will review these with you during your consultation to help you decide if this treatment is right for you. It is important to understand both the pros and the cons so you can make a sound decision about your oral health.
Pros
- Affordable: Teeth bonding costs less than procedures like dental veneers or dental crowns, making it more affordable.
- Preserves the Tooth Structure: Unlike dental crowns, dental bonding preserves most of the original tooth structure, which is beneficial for overall oral health.
- Minimally Invasive: Bonding is a non-invasive procedure, often requiring little to no enamel removal, making it relatively painless, and preserving the integrity of the natural tooth.
- Versatile: We can use teeth bonding to address many issues such as minor chips, gaps, and discoloration, providing a comprehensive solution for multiple aesthetic concerns.
Cons
- Durability: While durable, your bonded tooth will be more susceptible to chipping and staining compared to materials like porcelain used in dental veneers or crowns.
- Staining: The resin material used in bonding can stain over time, especially if you smoke or consume an excess of coffee or red wine or other staining materials.
- Limited Lifespan: Dental bonding typically lasts between 5 to 10 years. At that time, you will have to have it redone. Other procedures like porcelain veneers or dental crowns often have a longer lifespan, making them a more durable choice in the long run.
Teeth Bonding for Children
Family dentists can use dental bonding for children in certain situations. For instance, it can be applied to repair chipped or damaged primary (baby) teeth, preventing discomfort and potential oral health issues. However, it’s essential for children to have good oral hygiene habits, as bonded teeth require regular care to maintain their appearance and functionality.
The Teeth Bonding Procedure
The dental bonding procedure is easy, and we can often complete it in a single trip to one of our three dental offices in Madill and Ardmore, OK. The steps in the teeth bonding process include:
- Preparation: Your dentist will start by selecting a resin shade that closely matches the natural tooth color.
- Etching: The dentist will lightly etch the tooth surface to create a rough texture, which will allow the bonding material to adhere better.
- Application: The dentist applies the resin material to the tooth, shaping and molding it to achieve the desired appearance.
- Bonding: A special light is used to harden the bonding material, bonding it securely to the tooth.
- Polishing: After the bonding material is hardened, the dentist further shapes and polishes the tooth to ensure a natural and seamless look.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have answers to frequently asked questions about dental bonding treatments.
Does insurance cover teeth bonding?
Insurance coverage for teeth bonding depends on your policy and the reason for the procedure. If you want a bonding procedure for cosmetic reasons, insurance usually doesn’t cover it. However, if it’s necessary for dental health, such as repairing a tooth, your insurance might cover part of the cost. Your insurance provider will help you to understand your specific coverage details.
Is bonding suitable for children?
Yes, bonding is suitable for children. Dentists often use it to repair chipped or damaged teeth, close gaps, and improve the appearance of discolored teeth. Bonding is a minimally invasive procedure, making it a good option for kids. Dentists can perform it quickly, and it usually doesn’t require anesthesia.
Can my bonded teeth have a professional teeth whitening treatment?
No, dentists can’t use traditional teeth whitening treatments on tooth bonding. The bonding material doesn’t respond to whitening agents. You should get a whitening treatment before getting bonding. If the bonded area doesn’t match your whitened teeth, your dentist can replace it to match the new shade.
Does tooth bonding stain easily?
Yes. Tooth bonding is more prone to staining than natural teeth. The composite resin in bonding is more porous, making it more susceptible to discoloration from certain foods and drinks. Coffee, tea, and tobacco are usually culprits. If staining occurs, we can often polish the bonding to refresh its appearance. However, porcelain veneers offer a better option for long-term color stability.
How long does bonding last on the front teeth?
Bonding on the front teeth typically lasts between 5 to 10 years. However, its longevity depends on factors like oral hygiene, eating habits, and the bonding material’s quality. To make the bonding last longer, avoid biting on hard objects and visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.
Does dental bonding damage teeth?
Dental bonding doesn’t damage teeth. We apply the bonding material directly to your tooth surface without removing significant enamel. The process is reversible and less invasive than other cosmetic procedures. However, poor oral hygiene can lead to decay around the bonded area. Regular exams help us monitor the bonding and your overall dental health. With proper care, bonding can improve your smile without harming your natural teeth.
Schedule a Consultation for Teeth Bonding in Southern Oklahoma
Dental bonding is a versatile and accessible cosmetic dentistry treatment we often utilize for our patients. Even with its limitations, it’s affordable, fast, and offers aesthetically pleasing results. Because of this, it is popular among patients how are young or not ready to commit to a permanent treatment.
Storts Family Dentistry is a local Southern Oklahoma dentist office that offers teeth bonding treatment. Contact our office today to learn how this cheap and easy cosmetic dentistry treatment can improve your oral health and the appearance of your smile. You can reach us at (580) 260-3410 or by requesting an appointment online.