You may need cosmetic bonding if you have thinning enamel, chipped teeth, or excessive staining that can’t be safely corrected by teeth whitening treatments. Learn if you are a good candidate for dental bonding in Raleigh, NC today.
How Can Cosmetic Bonding Improve Your Smile in Raleigh, NC?
Candidates for dental bonding are typically those who have cosmetic or structural issues with their teeth. The most common structural issues corrected by a bonding procedure are repairing broken, chipped, or cracked teeth or closing gaps between teeth when orthodontic treatments aren’t appropriate for the patient. Sometimes, dental bonding can be used to protect tooth roots that are exposed by a receding gumline to fortify tooth structure and health.
Cosmetic purposes tend to focus on the overall appearance of the teeth. Dental bonding can be used to reshape the teeth to create an even smile, lengthen teeth that are naturally stubby, and ensure all teeth are evenly sized. Bonding can also be used to improve the appearance of stains that don’t respond to whitening treatments.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
Dental bonding usually takes about an hour or less to complete, even if you are bonding multiple teeth at once. This procedure does not typically require lidocaine or other anesthesia. Before the procedure starts, your dentist will select a resin composite that is close to the natural color of your teeth. Then, the surface of the teeth will be roughened to help the resin stick to the tooth surface.
Once resin is applied, your dentist will shape and smooth the composite filling until the desired shape is achieved. The resin is then cured under a special light to rapidly dry the material and ensure a strong bond to the tooth. The final step of the procedure is smoothing away rough edges and polishing the tooth so that it has the same slick feel as natural enamel.
What Should You Do After the Procedure?
After your procedure, you can usually resume your normal diet within a couple of hours. During the first few days after your procedure, you can limit sensitivity by avoiding extremely hot and cold foods. It’s best to avoid foods that can stain the composite resin, such as tea, coffee, and wine. You can reduce staining by brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day.
How Long Does Bonding Last?
You can usually expect dental bonding to last for five to 10 years, particularly when you follow good oral hygiene practices and stay mindful of how you treat bonded teeth.
While composite resin is durable, it’s important to remember that the resin can’t withstand intense pressure every day, which is why composite resin is generally used on your front teeth or the outer surface of the teeth. Any damage caused by hard foods or accidents should be repaired as soon as possible to protect your teeth.
Dental bonding can be an excellent option for patients who want to improve cosmetic issues like unevenly sized teeth or a chipped tooth. Schedule a consultation at Rebecca E Reeves DMD, PA in Raleigh, NC.