WHAT IS BONDING?

Bonding is the application of a composite resin to repair a decayed, chipped, fractured or discolored tooth.  The resin is made to match the color of your tooth. Bonding can be done in a single visit. The procedure is called bonding because the material bonds to the tooth.

Bonding is the simplest and least expensive of our cosmetic dental procedures.  The composite resin can be molded and polished to match the surrounding teeth. Bonding is also used to improve the appearance of a discolored or chipped tooth.  We also use bonding to close gaps between teeth, make teeth look longer or change the shape and color of your teeth.

Bonding can also be used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam dental fillings, or to protect a portion of the tooth’s root that has been exposed when gums recede.

No preparation is needed for bonding.  Anesthesia often is not necessary, unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth.  It is fast and easy!

THE PROCESS

First, we select the composite resin color that will closely match the color of your tooth.

Then, we will slightly etch the surface of the tooth to roughen it.  The tooth will be coated with a conditioner, which helps the bonding material attach to it.

After we prepare the tooth, we apply the tooth-colored resin.  The resin is shaped and smoothed onto the tooth. The material is then hardened with our high-tech diode laser.

After the bonding material hardens, we further trim and shape it.  Lastly, we polish the material until it matches the shade of the tooth’s surface.

It usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to complete the procedure.  If you’re having more than one tooth done, you may need more than one visit.

ADVANTAGES OF BRENTWOOD FAMILY DENTISTRY

Are your teeth unevenly spaced, misaligned, or crowded together?  Are they ground down, chipped, or cracked? If so, we can restore your teeth to their natural beauty instantly with cosmetic dental bonding.  This popular form of smile enhancement is extremely conservative, removing only a minimal amount of tooth structure, and yet it produces amazing results.  We are experts in the bonding process. Dr. Rhea and Dr. Doherty have over 60 years of combined experience in cosmetic and restorative bonding. We treat you individually, according to your own unique situation.  Of course, prevention is the best option! Visiting our office on a regular basis helps to keep your teeth in the best possible condition! We pride ourselves on respecting your time, and will work within your budget.  Your comfort and safety are our primary concern. We will make your teeth healthy, natural looking and beautiful again!