What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is one of our most versatile, efficient, and affordable cosmetic procedures. Dental bonding can repair minor flaws and create a seamless, beautiful smile.

A Process More Simple Than You Think

The process is straightforward and comfortable, requiring little to no anesthesia unless it’s being used to fill a decayed tooth.

1. The Perfect Match: First, Dr. Foote will carefully select a composite resin material that perfectly matches the exact shade of your natural teeth. This ensures the repair is virtually invisible.
2. Preparing the Surface: The surface of your tooth is gently prepared to help the bonding material adhere strongly.
3. The Real Work Begins: The putty-like resin is applied to your tooth. Dr. Foote sculpts and shapes the material to fill a gap, rebuild a broken tooth, or cover a discolored spot.
4. Setting the Bond: A special curing light hardens and sets the material, bonding it securely to your tooth’s surface.
5. The Final Touch: Once set, Dr. Foote will finely polish the bonded tooth, smoothing it out and shaping it to blend flawlessly with your natural teeth. The result is a restoration that looks and feels like part of your original smile.

What Can Dental Bonding Fix?

This one procedure can address a surprising number of cosmetic concerns:

• Repair Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Instantly restore the shape and integrity of a damaged tooth.
• Close Gaps and Spaces: Minimize small diastemas (gaps) between teeth without bracing.
• Reshape Teeth: Alter the length or shape of teeth that are uneven or too small.
• Cover Stains: Mask stubborn internal discoloration or stains that whitening can’t fix.
• Protect Exposed Roots: Cover roots exposed due to gum recession, reducing sensitivity.

The Pros and Cons

The Advantages:

1. Speed & Convenience: Most bonding procedures are completed in a 30- to 60-minute visit.
2. Affordability: It is significantly less expensive than porcelain veneers or crowns.
3. Minimally Invasive: The process requires minimal removal of your natural tooth enamel.

Things to Consider:

1. Durability: While durable, the composite resin is not as strong as porcelain and can chip or stain over time (typically lasting 5-10 years with proper care).
2. Staining: The material can pick up stains from coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking. Maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding stain-causing foods will help it last longer.

Is Dental Bonding Your Solution?

Dental bonding is an excellent choice for fixing minor cosmetic issues quickly and effectively. However, a porcelain veneer or crown might be a stronger, longer-lasting solution for more extensive damage or severe discoloration.

The best way to know if dental bonding is right for you is to come in for a consultation. Dr. Foote will examine your teeth, listen to your goals, and recommend the best path to achieve your desired smile.

Ready to explore a quick, affordable smile upgrade? Contact our Columbia, MO office today at (573) 449-2311 to schedule your appointment.

FAQs

1. What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a quick, affordable cosmetic procedure that uses a tooth-colored composite resin to repair chips, close gaps, cover stains, and reshape teeth for a seamless smile.

2. How long does a dental bonding procedure take?

It’s very fast! Most dental bonding procedures are completed in just one visit, typically in 30 to 60 minutes.

3. Is dental bonding a permanent solution?

No, bonding is a long-lasting but not permanent solution. With proper care, it typically lasts between 5 and 10 years before it may need a touch-up or replacement.

4. What are the main advantages of dental bonding?

Its key advantages are affordability, speed, and minimal invasiveness. It requires little to no removal of natural tooth enamel.

5. Can bonded teeth stain?

Yes, the composite resin material can stain over time, similar to natural teeth. Avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks and maintaining good oral hygiene will help keep it looking its best.