What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is the premiere choice for safe and cost effective tooth repair. In Dental bonding, a bit of composite material is attached to a supportive tooth root structure, shaped to resemble the tooth, and set. The whole process can usually be done in the office in one visit, and the material should hold and be cared for just as any other tooth.
Why do you need Dental Bonding?
If you get a slight crack or fracture in your bones, the only thing you can do is cast it up and wait. Even then, sometimes the bones do not set correctly, and they have to be reset, Ouch!
If you get a crack or chip in your teeth, they do not often repair. The teeth are in constant use during talking, eating, chewing, and breathing. The teeth also sit in a wet environment all day every day, dodging harmful bacteria. Chips and cracks are great places for bacteria to hide and multiply on their way to your gums. Dental bonding is a wonderful option, because a dentist can rapidly apply material they have on hand, that looks just like a tooth, and smoothly repair the tooth.
What is the Dental Bonding Process?
Firstly, you should see your dentist. If you have prior knowledge of a crack or severe staining you would like bonded, let them know when you make the appointment. Begin with a good cleaning. Take care of all the plaque buildup, any foodstuffs, and flush out bacteria. Then get a thorough examination. Have your dentist explain what the damage to your teeth and gums look like, and what the underlying cause was. Then, ask about dental bonding repair options.
If a larger portion of the tooth crown is gone, the dentist may suggest an adhesive bonding. This is where a molded, lab made tooth crown, is adhered to the healthy tooth root structure. If there is enough of the tooth to salvage, they may opt for a direct composite bonding procedure. Wherein the composite material is applied, shaped, and set under a curing lamp all in one visit.
They will begin by isolating the problem tooth area, using special rubber separators to keep moisture away from the area. Then they will apply a touch of acid to mar the surface of the tooth. Causing microabrasions helps the bonding and adhesive material to set and stick better. Then the material will be applied, and shortly after shaped. Then there will be a short wait while it is set.
A long term bond
Now, you have your new tooth. Care for it as you would any other tooth. Use floss regularly, brush often, and see your dentist for routine cleanings and examinations. Care for your dental bonding, and it should last you a very long time. Do not assume that because it is not a tooth it is kess susceptible to tooth decay. Bacteria can become very active and destroy tissue quickly. Make regular follow up appointments with your dentist, and enjoy your new smile.