What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure used to repair or improve the appearance of a person’s teeth. It involves the application of a tooth-coloured resin material to the surface of the tooth and then hardening it with a special light. Dental bonding is commonly used to address various dental issues, including:

 1) Repairing chipped or cracked teeth: Bonding can be used to restore teeth that have minor chips or cracks, improving their appearance and function.

 2) Closing gaps between teeth: It can help close small gaps or spaces between teeth, providing a more even and aesthetically pleasing smile.

 3) Reshaping misaligned or uneven teeth: Dentists can use bonding to reshape teeth that are slightly misaligned, too small, or have irregular shapes.

 4) Covering stained or discoloured teeth: Dental bonding can be a less invasive alternative to teeth whitening or veneers for covering stains and discolorations on the teeth.

 5) Filling cavities: Bonding can be used to fill small cavities in teeth. The resin material is matched to the colour of the natural teeth for a more natural appearance.

The process of dental bonding typically involves the following steps:

 1) Preparation: The dentist will start by selecting a resin material that closely matches the colour of your natural teeth. They may lightly etch the surface of the tooth to help the bonding material adhere better.

 2) Application: The resin material is applied to the tooth and carefully sculpted into the desired shape. The dentist will use their skill to make the bonded tooth blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.

 3) Bonding: A special light or laser is used to harden and bond the resin to the tooth’s surface. This process usually takes only a few minutes per tooth.

 4) Shaping and polishing: After the bonding material has hardened, the dentist will further shape and trim it to achieve the desired appearance. The bonded tooth is then polished to match the sheen of natural teeth.

Dental bonding is a relatively quick and non-invasive procedure compared to some other cosmetic dental treatments. However, it may not be as durable as alternatives like porcelain veneers, and the bonded material can stain or chip over time. The lifespan of dental bonding can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene, diet, and the location of the bonded tooth. Your dentist can provide more information about whether dental bonding is a suitable option for your specific dental concerns.