We at Cherokee Dental Professionals are passionate about helping you restore your smile with dental bonding. It’s one of the easiest and most affordable ways to fix broken, decayed, or discolored teeth. If you’re dealing with a chipped tooth, minor gaps, or a bit of discoloration, dental bonding can bring back the beauty and function of your smile in no time.
Cosmetic Tooth Bonding
We are proud of the ways in which dentistry can restore broken or decayed teeth to full beauty and function. One of the easiest and least expensive ways of doing this is with dental bonding.
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin to restore and enhance the natural look of your teeth. This material, which is a mix of plastic and glass, bonds directly to your tooth, adding strength and a translucent finish that blends seamlessly with your smile. It makes a great option for front teeth or fixing small imperfections, and it doesn’t require any extensive preparation or lab work, making it quick and convenient.
Bonding is a less invasive, cost-effective alternative to other restorations like veneers. And since it doesn’t require much alteration to your natural tooth, it’s a great choice for teens or anyone looking for a less permanent cosmetic solution.
The Dental Bonding Process
Getting dental bonding is simple and typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour. Here’s what you can expect:
- Cleaning and Preparation: Your tooth will be cleaned to ensure it’s plaque-free and ready for bonding.
- Etching: We’ll apply a special gel to create tiny pores on your tooth surface, allowing the resin to bond more securely.
- Applying the Resin: The composite resin, in a shade that matches your natural teeth, is applied in layers, filling in the tiny pores to create a strong bond.
- Curing and Shaping: After each layer is applied, we use a special light to harden the material, then shape it to match the contours of your tooth.
- Polishing: The final step is polishing the tooth to give it a smooth, shiny finish that blends seamlessly with your smile.
Taking Care of Bonded Teeth
Once your bonding is in place, it’s easy to care for. Just brush and floss like you would your regular teeth, and get professional cleanings twice a year. Keep in mind that while bonded teeth are durable, the resin can absorb stains over time. To help keep them looking great, avoid smoking, drinking coffee, tea, or red wine.
Also, if you plan to whiten your teeth, it’s best to do that before getting dental bonding. Since the resin won’t whiten along with your natural teeth, we can match the composite to the new shade of your smile. And to keep your bonding in top shape, avoid biting your nails or using your teeth to open things, as this could cause the bonding to chip. With proper care, a bonded tooth can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years.
