Get all the details before you talk with your dentist. Dental bonding procedures might seem to make a perfect solution for your teeth. You may know friends or relatives who’ve had tooth bonding done and recommend it. But even before you discuss it with your dentist, get all the details about dental bonds first.
Understand Dental Bonding Procedures and the Problems They Solve
During dental bonding procedures, your dentist will roughen the tooth’s surface and apply a conditioning liquid to help the bonding material adhere. Then she will apply a durable resin material to the tooth, smooth it to the desired shape and harden it using a special light. Each bonding takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
Before beginning, your dentist will use a color selector to closely match the bonding material to your natural enamel color. Usually, anesthesia is not used unless the bonding is being used to fill in a decayed tooth.
Dentists may recommend dental bonding to:
- Repair decayed teeth.
- Repair chipped or cracked teeth.
- Protect a portion of the tooth’s root if it’s exposed due to receding gums.
- Close gaps.
- Improve the appearance of discolored teeth.
- Make teeth look longer.
- Alter the shape of teeth.
- Fill a tooth more aesthetically than typical amalgam fillings.
However, due to some limitations with dental bonding, some dentists only suggest it for minor or temporary cosmetic alterations.
So what are these limitations?
Decipher the Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding Procedures
Dental bonding is not as durable as other restorative treatments like fillings, crowns or veneers. The material used for bonding can more easily chip off and even break your tooth. And while bonding material resists stains, it doesn’t resist them as well as crowns.
But dental bonding requires the least amount of tooth enamel to be removed, compared to other treatments. It’s less expensive than other treatments and takes less time to complete.
Decide with Your Dentist Whether Dental Bonding Makes Sense for You
Now that you understand exactly what dental bonding procedures are and the pros and cons of the treatment, consult with your dentist. Based on your teeth and personal needs, you can make an informed decision together.
If you need a reliable dentist who aims to make your dental work as pleasant and pain-free as possible, call MyOrthodontist today to set up an appointment at one of our convenient locations.
