Do you have stained, damaged, or discolored teeth? Tooth bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that can improve the aesthetics of damaged teeth. This treatment can help rebuild the tooth structure and lighten the appearance of teeth by several shades. It is also composed of a long-lasting composite resin that is adhered and shaped to teeth.
Tooth bonding can be used to address:
- Chipped teeth
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Fractured teeth
- Stained teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Misshapen teeth
- Gaps between teeth
Is Tooth Bonding Right for Me?
Tooth bonding treats minor to moderate tooth damage. If you have cosmetic issues like chipped, cracked, stained, or misshapen teeth, bonding may be a suitable option.
Dr. Dhara Patel may recommend dental crowns or extraction for patients with severe cases of tooth damage.
It’s important to evaluate your overall dental health before considering tooth bonding. If you have extensive decay, gum disease, or structural damage to your teeth, bonding may not be appropriate. In such cases, your dentist will prioritize the underlying dental issues before recommending a tooth bonding procedure.
Before treatment, Dr. Patel will examine your teeth and gums, taking your budget, goals, and health into consideration. If you think that you would be a good candidate for tooth bonding, call Best Dental Spa at 847.660.6603.
Treatment with Tooth Bonding
Dr. Patel will prepare the tooth or teeth receiving the tooth bonding material. Tooth preparation entails the removal of a small part of the tooth structure. This allows the composite resin can adhere to the surface of your teeth. The dentist applies the resin, shapes it to the tooth, and cures it using a special bonding light.
The dentist shines the tooth for a natural and brighter look. Air abrasion may also be used to fix any imperfections. Make sure that you schedule regular dental checkups to maintain the health and appearance of your smile.
Tooth Bonding FAQS
Learn more about tooth bonding below.
How long does tooth bonding last?
Depending on the tooth’s location, tooth bonding can last from 4 to 8 years. However, keep in mind that it’s not as permanent as its counterpart, porcelain veneers. To maintain your tooth bonding results for as long as possible, follow these tips:
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and debris from between your teeth and along your gum line.
- Avoid foods and drinks that may stain your teeth. Dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and soda can stain your bonded teeth. Additionally, try to limit your intake of highly pigmented foods like berries and tomato-based sauces.
- Quit smoking. Smoking can cause discoloration and stains on bonded teeth. It can also impact the overall health of your teeth and gums.
- Be mindful of what you bite or chew. Avoid biting hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails, as they can damage the bonding material. Similarly, avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods that may cause the bonding to chip or come loose.
- Protect against grinding and clenching. If you grind your teeth or clench your jaw, consider wearing a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth and bonding. These habits can put excessive pressure on your bonded teeth and weakens the bonding material.
- Continue regular dental visits. Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. They can assess the condition of your bonding and make any necessary repairs or touch-ups.
- Report any issues to your dentist promptly. If you notice any changes in the appearance or integrity of your bonding, such as chipping, roughness, or discoloration, visit your dentist as soon as possible to address the issue before it worsens.
Does tooth bonding hurt?
Tooth bonding does not hurt as the area of the tooth being worked on is not sensitive. You will not feel pain during the procedure and should not feel any discomfort at all after the treatment.
Does tooth bonding break easily?
Unless you clench or grind your teeth, the tooth bonding biocomposite material is not easily breakable. If you suffer from bruxism, or teeth grinding, tell Dr. Patel and he can help treat the condition at the source.
Can you eat normally with dental bonding?
Directly after the bonding procedure patients should avoid eating any hard or chewy foods. After a few days, patients may start to slowly experiment with the strength and capabilities of their bond. It takes a week or two to adjust to eat normally and adjust to the feeling.
How do I care for my composite bond?
Patients with bonds are told to avoid foods and drinks that may stain them. These include tomatoes, tea, coffee, wine, candy, etc. They also should practice a strong and consistent oral care routine, as well as schedule regular dental cleanings. Patients with tooth bonding should also avoid smoking, and drinking through straws if possible.
Repair Teeth Today
Call 847.660.6603 today for comfortable treatment at Best Dental Spa. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Patel online today.
