Bonding |
Introduction
Bonding involves placing a composite resin directly onto the enamel of the teeth to be added to or covered. Your dentist lightly prepares the tooth to receive the material and etches the surface so the material has more surface area to bond to. He/she coats the tooth with a bonding liquid and then shines a light on the tooth to set it. A putty like material is then placed on the tooth and molded to the desired shape. Light is again shined on the tooth to harden the material. After it is set the resin is trimmed and polished. This can be performed in one or more appointments depending on the number of teeth involved.
Bonding can be done to:
- Repair a broken, chipped or worn tooth
- Cover up discoloration on a tooth
- Close a small space or gap between two teeth
Advantages:
- Excellent cosmetic results- can look as good as veneers.
- Relatively inexpensive
- No alteration of tooth so no anesthesia required
Disadvantage:
- Does not last as long as veneers.
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Bonding usually lasts from 3 to 5 years before needing to be repaired. Plastic resin is not as strong as your natural teeth and can be chipped or broken, if not careful. The material is also porous and will pick up stains over time. The bonded surface will wear and become duller in appearance over time unless special toothpastes are used. Proper home care and professional cleanings will keep your restored teeth healthy.
Bonding not only restores your tooth but also helps to improve your appearance and self-confidence. People are sometimes hesitant to smile because of the way their front teeth look, after bonding they can smile freely again.
Dentistinfo.com- "http://www.dentistinfo.com/topics/smile.htm#Bonding"
Qualitydentistry.com- "http://www.qualitydentistry.com/dental/composite/bonding.html "
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