What Is Tooth Bonding?

Bonding is the application of composite resin to the surface of the tooth to repair it. It's a simple, inexpensive cosmetic dental procedure that is usually completed in a single visit. There are lots of dental issues that bonding can correct. However, tooth bonding is most often used to repair chipped or discolored teeth. Bonding can also be used to close the large spaces between teeth, change the shape of teeth or make teeth appear longer. In some cases, bonding is used in place of amalgam or metallic fillings to protect the exposed root of a tooth with receded gums.

Fortunately, dental bonding is an outpatient procedure that usually only requires one appointment. Your dental professional will apply a resin composed of composite plastic material to your broken tooth. The resin is perfect for molding, so you'll have a new tooth that seamlessly fits with your smile. Here are the steps you can expect out of a dental bonding procedure:

• Step 1: A dental professional will clean the tooth to create the best possible bonding surface.
• Step 2: They will apply the resin and shape the bonding material.
• Step 3: The bonding material will then be dried with a UV light, and additional shaping will take place.
• Step 4: Your dental professional will polish the bonding for a natural shine, and they will floss the tooth to ensure the restoration is smooth.

It usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour to complete the bonding procedure. However, if you are having multiple teeth done, it could take several visits to complete. Because most tooth bonding procedures do not require anesthesia, you can return to regular daily activity immediately after your appointment.

The downside to tooth bonding is that the composite resin isn't nearly as strong as a natural tooth, so it's more likely that it can chip or break off altogether. If you're about to go in for a tooth bonding procedure, it might be time to kick habits, such as biting your fingernails or chewing on ice or pens, as these things can chip the resin.

How long bonding lasts depends on how much bonding you have done and your oral habits, so it's important to give bonded teeth the same amount of care and attention as your natural teeth. The bonding material is prone to staining, so watch how often you consume substances that can stain, such as tea, coffee, cigarette smoke, and wine. It's imperative to avoid consuming staining foods for the first 48 hours after any composite procedure.

In the days after having the bonding placed, call your dentist if you notice sharp edges on the bonded teeth or your teeth feel unusual when you bite down. Always contact your dentist if the bonding chips or pieces fall off completely.

Enamel bonding can last anywhere from three to ten years before needing repairs or replacements. A proper oral care routine consisting of brushing your teeth twice a day and daily interdental flossing will significantly extend the effectiveness of dental bonding. Regular visits to a dental professional will also help keep your mouth healthy and ensure the dental bonding functions appropriately.

Some other simple ways to protect a dental bonding include:

• Avoid chewing on ice.
• Pass on hard and chewy candies.
• Try not to pick at the bonding.
• Keep sharp objects out of your mouth.
• Protect your teeth with a mouthguard for sports.
• Prevent grinding damage with a nightguard.
• Rinse your mouth with water after consuming highly acidic foods.

In most cases, tooth bonding doesn't require an orthodontist, anesthesia, or multiple visits, which usually increases the cost of treatment. The procedure can take 30-60 minutes per tooth and typically only requires a single appointment—making it less involved than veneers and crowns. Dental bonding is one of the most inexpensive tooth repair procedures at just $200-$1000 per tooth (depending on insurance coverage and location).

Tooth bonding is a simple way to repair chipped or discolored teeth and give you back the confidence you need to flash your pearly whites. Talk to your dentist to determine if tooth bonding is the right solution for you.

This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.