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 At Southern Heights Dental Group we believe in using conservative methods to enhance your smile whenever possible. Composite bonding is an ideal choice for fixing many minor aesthetic problems without damaging your natural tooth.
How does it work?
Composite bonding is a technique used to improve the appearance of your teeth. The term composite bonding refers to any composite material, either a plastic or resin, which is bonded to an existing tooth. Bonding can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored or misarranged, and is an alternative to veneers. The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist. Once set, the resin is trimmed, smoothed and polished to a natural appearance. Advantages Composite bonding is a quick process, typically lasting less than an hour. Compared to porcelain veneers or a dental crown procedure, it is a popular choice because it reduces very little of the tooth’s original structure. Composite bonding is also relatively inexpensive. And finally, composite resins are available in many different shades. The shade can be chosen to match the natural color of the original tooth.
Considerations
The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit, and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel or a porcelain veneer, it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before repair is needed. Care of the Bonded tooth Proper care of the bonded tooth ensures the longest possible duration of the bonding. The bonded teeth, just like the rest of your teeth, should be brushed and flossed daily. This is especially important if you drink coffee, tea or smoke tobacco, all of which stain composite bonds.
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