Dental bonding offers a versatile solution for addressing various minor dental concerns, which encompass:
- Repairing cracked, chipped, and damaged teeth
- Reshaping teeth to enhance their appearance
- Closing small gaps or spaces between teeth
- Enhancing the aesthetics of discolored teeth
- Providing relief from discomfort caused by exposed tooth roots due to gum recession
- Serving as an alternative to amalgam fillings for filling tooth cavities
Comparatively, other treatment alternatives like dental crowns and porcelain veneers are more costly and involve more invasive procedures than dental bonding.
For individuals with a few gaps between their teeth, dental bonding can be an attractive alternative to clear aligners or braces, eliminating the need for these orthodontic options.
3 Types of Dental Bonding Treatments
Direct Dental Bonding or Composite Dental Bonding
Direct dental bonding efficiently addresses chipped or decayed teeth in a single office visit, restoring the natural shape, function, appearance, and color of your original teeth.
Composite dental bonding, on the other hand, entails the application of tooth-colored restorations, often referred to as fillings, onto one or more teeth. This procedure involves the use of a specialized adhesive and tooth-colored composite resin material. Both materials are bonded to your teeth using a high-intensity curing light, after which the restoration is meticulously smoothed and polished. The entire process typically requires only one appointment for direct dental bonding.
Composite Veneer Bonding
Composite veneer bonding is categorized as a cosmetic treatment, making it an elective procedure that is typically not covered by insurance.
This form of bonding offers the ability to modify the shape, color, and size of teeth, and it can effectively address gaps and alter the length of your teeth. When well-maintained, composite bonds have the potential to last up to 8 years.
During the process of composite veneer bonding, your dentist will begin by cleaning the area surrounding the tooth. Then, a thin layer of adhesive is carefully applied to the tooth surface. Next, the dentist will use adhesive to apply composite material over the tooth, which is subsequently hardened using a special curing light. To achieve your desired smile, you have the option to choose from various shades of composite resins.
Indirect Dental Bonding
Indirect dental bonding is a restorative treatment that restores broken or decayed teeth.
The procedure is separated into two appointments:
In the initial appointment, your dentist will take an impression of the damaged or decaying tooth. This impression is then sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians craft an indirect filling or dental inlay.
Both indirect inlays and fillings are fabricated using composite resin materials, known for their strength and durability due to the application of high heat during the curing process.
Once the indirect restoration is ready, you will return to your dentist for a second appointment. During this visit, your dentist will securely bond the filling or inlay to your tooth, completing the restorative process.
Aftercare & Maintenance for Dental Bonding
With proper care, dental bonds can last up to 8 years
Here are some aftercare tips for dental bonds:
- To maintain a bright smile and prevent tooth discoloration, consider reducing consumption of red wine, coffee, tea, and dark fruits known to stain teeth
- For smokers, it is highly advised by dentists to quit altogether, as smoking not only causes discoloration but also increases the likelihood of developing oral cancer and gum disease
- To protect your teeth from damage, refrain from biting nails or chewing on hard items like raw carrots, pencils, and ice cubes
- If you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth, wearing a protective night guard can help safeguard your teeth from potential harm
Get Your New and Improved Smile at Smiles Nambour
At Smiles Nambour, we care for your smile. We know how important your smile is for you to be always confident whenever and wherever you go.
Dental bonding is a simple way to improve your smile and change your life. With the help of dentists at Smiles Nambour, you’ll be dying to show off your pearly whites.
Don’t let you teeth’s imperfections tar your smile! Talk with your Smiles Nambour dentist today.
Call (07) 5441 4438 or visit us at 4/104 Currie Street in Nambour.