Dental bonding is a procedure that uses a tooth-colored resin to adhere to natural teeth with the application of a durable plastic material and a blue light to make it harder. This material ultimately “bonds” with teeth to improve the overall appearance of a tooth.

Dental bonding enjoys several advantages over veneers and other methods used to improve the appearance of teeth. Primary among these is that a veneer requires a custom mold then a manufacturing in a laboratory, while a bonding treatment can be achieved in a single office visit.

Why Bonding?

Dental bonding is among the least expensive procedures that can be done to improve the look of teeth. Unlike other methods, bonding is done simply by mixing and shaping the composite materials to match a tooth. It is excellent to use in cases where there is damage to a tooth or to close the space between teeth, make them look longer, or to shape or color teeth. Bonding is also an excellent alternative to some fillings as well as to protect part of a tooth’s root that might become exposed due to receding gums.

Another benefit of bonding is that there is often no need for anesthetics for the procedure, unless it is being used to repair a tooth that has been damaged.

How is Bonding Done?

A Dentist will begin by selecting a tooth color that most naturally matches your teeth. Then, they will mix the composite solution to match that shade. Once they select a shade that matches your teeth as closely as possible, they will gently abrade the surface of your existing tooth to ensure that the compound has something to which to adhere.

After your tooth has been prepared, your Dentist will apply the resin to your tooth and mold it to shape. He will then use an ultraviolet light to harden it.

After the bond has hardened, your Dentist will continue to shape and polish the tooth until it matches your other natural teeth.

The bonding procedure usually takes about 30 minutes to complete. If you are having more than one tooth done, you may be required to accomplish the entire treatment in several visits. Swan Dental can review this procedure with you and any alternatives to ensure you are getting the right treatment for your smile.