Tooth Bonding
What is tooth bonding?
Tooth bonding involves adding a material onto a tooth to change it's shape or shape, or to close a small gap between two teeth (most commonly for an anterior or front teeth). No removal of tooth structure is needed and the bonded material that is added is color matched with your natural tooth color--making results very aesthetically pleasing.
How is tooth bonding different from veneers?
Tooth bonding is different than veneers since no lab is required and no anesthesia/numbing medication is required--unless there is decay or a fractured tooth involved. The procedure can also be done in one visit.
What is the procedure like?
Most of the time, no local anesthetic is needed if the tooth doesn't have decay or isn't fractured. The first thing our team will do is shade match our material to the shade of your teeth. We will verify this shade with you and go over any other options if you wish to go darker or lighter. The tooth may then be slightly roughened, and then a conditioner will be placed on the tooth. A resin is then added and is shaped and polished. Appointments usually take 30 minutes, depending on how many teeth are needed to be bonded.
What are things I should avoid after treatment?
Smoking, tea or coffee can stain the margins of the resin so these should be avoided, especially for the first 48 hours after the procedure is completed.
What are the risks?
Tooth bonding is not as strong as crowns or veneers. They can fracture and may need to be replaced frequently. Therefore, the following things should be avoided: biting fingernails, using teeth to shear food excessively, chewing ice or chewing on objects such as pens. Tooth bonding usually lasts for a few years but this can vary depending on your chewing habits, oral health, and how much bonding was used on your teeth.
Please schedule an appointment today if you think you may need teeth whitening. Our friendly staff will answer any questions or concerns you may have.
