Dental Bonding Specialist

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is one of the most basic types of cosmetic dentistry. It’s quick, long-lasting, and rarely requires anesthesia. 

During dental bonding, your Westside Dentistry provider applies a tooth-colored composite resin to the surface of one or more damaged teeth. The resin dries in layers, correcting imperfections, such as chips, cracks, and discoloration. Dental bonding is incredibly cost-effective and much more affordable than crowns and veneers. 

What happens during a dental bonding appointment?

Prior to dental bonding, your Westside Dentistry provider conducts an oral exam and asks you about your goals for treatment. They might also take a series of X-rays to get a closer look at your teeth. After pinpointing your damaged tooth, your provider uses a shade guide to find a composite resin that closely matches the color and light-reflecting properties of your tooth enamel.

Next, your provider prepares the surface of your tooth to receive bonding by roughening the edges. Then, your dentist applies a liquid to your tooth that allows the bonding agent to stick before applying the composite resin to the surface of your tooth. Afterward, your provider points a special light at the solution, causing it to harden. The entire process lasts 60-90 minutes.

Who is a candidate for dental bonding?

You’re probably a good candidate for dental bonding if you have a damaged tooth. The team at Westside Dentistry regularly uses dental bonding to correct decaying teeth, cracked teeth, and discolored teeth. 

Your provider might also recommend dental bonding if you have a tooth that’s smaller than the others. Dental bonding can ensure all of your teeth are the same length. 

Is dental bonding safe?

Dental bonding is safe and well-tolerated. That said, it’s important to remember that dental bonding isn’t as tough or durable as your natural tooth enamel. As a result, you should avoid bad habits, such as nail-biting, chewing on ice cubes, or gnawing on pencils. These activities can cause the bonding material to chip or separate from your natural tooth. 

It’s also possible to stain your dental bonding. If you’re concerned about the color of your teeth, you may want to avoid using tobacco products or drinking dark beverages like red wine and coffee.

If you’ve chipped or cracked a tooth and want to repair it quickly, dental bonding may be the solution. Request your appointment at Westside Dentistry today by calling the office or using the online booking tool.