Dental Bonding Q & A

​

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a restoration procedure in which our dentists apply a tooth-colored resin material to repair flaws affecting your teeth, including:

​

• Chips

• Cracks

• Decay

• Discoloration

 

Ultraviolet light is used to cure the bonding material onto your teeth. Bonding procedures can improve the shape, color, and function of flawed teeth.

​

Why should I consider dental bonding?

Bonding offers a viable and cheaper alternative to more involved restorations, such as crowns or veneers. Unlike those procedures, a bonding treatment can be performed in one visit.

​

Bonding procedures also don’t require filing down as much of your tooth enamel, compared with veneers and crowns, to make room for the restorations. However, bonding material doesn’t last as long, and it’s slightly less stain resistant than more permanent restorations. Our dentists generally recommends it for cosmetic reasons and touch-ups as opposed to major restorations.

​

How do bonding procedures work?

Bonding procedures typically require 30-60 minutes per tooth. First, your dentist determines exactly what shade your teeth are so he can select a resin that will blend with them naturally. Next, they thoroughly prepares your tooth so the bonding material will adhere more easily. This involves roughening the surface of the tooth and applying a liquid conditioner.

​

Once this is complete, Dr. Pizer or Dr.Froehlich will apply the resin to the tooth and cure it using the aid of an ultraviolet light. Finally, Dr. Pizer or Dr. Froehlich will apply the finishing touches by smoothing and polishing the resin for a good fit.

​

How can I make sure a bonding treatment lasts?

Resin bonds usually last at least five years before they need to be repaired. However, since resin bonds aren’t as strong as natural teeth, you’ll need to make sure you’re careful.

​

Try to limit your intake of stain-causing foods and beverages, such as red wine, coffee, and mustard, and don’t bite your fingernails or chew hard foods, like ice. That can lead to chips or cracks in the resin.

​

To find out more about dental bonding, or if you have a chipped or cracked tooth that needs repair, call or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.