Dental Bonding

For minor cosmetic flaws, the process known as tooth bonding may be an ideal solution. This low-cost, effective option is quite simple but can have a dramatic effect on your smile.

To learn more or to arrange an appointment in the Denver area, please call Aspenwood Dental Associates and Colorado Dental Implant Center at 303-751-3321.

What Is Tooth Bonding?

Tooth bonding is a process in which a composite resin is applied to the enamel. When it is applied, it is soft and malleable. Once the dentists sculpt the resin on the tooth, it is hardened with a curing light.

Tooth bonding is mainly used for:

• Minor chips
• Small gaps between teeth
• Uneven spacing
• Slightly misshapen teeth
• To mask brown or white discolorations

The process is straightforward and can be done in one visit. Often times, this process can be completed without anesthesia.

Advantages of bonding include cost, time, and effectiveness. It provides a way to touch up your smile without a large investment of time or money. It can also be quite long-lasting, particularly if you take care of your teeth with daily brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist.

Tooth bonding is a simple treatment that requires very little preparation. If you are interested in restoring your damaged or discolored tooth with composite resin, you will first need to schedule a consultation. During your visit, our team will tell you more about what to expect from bonding.

Anesthesia is usually only necessary if your tooth is decayed or if it is damaged close to your nerve. However, in most cases, tooth bonding can be comfortably completed without it. If you will require anesthesia, our dentists can discuss your options in advance of your treatment.

What Is the Tooth Bonding Process?

The tooth bonding process is straightforward and can typically be completed in one visit. First, one of our dentists will prepare the surface of your tooth and apply a conditioning liquid to ensure that the bonding material will adhere properly. Then, they will select a shade of composite resin that closely matches the color of your natural tooth. Next, our dentist will apply the resin material.

After applying the resin, our dentist will carefully shape and sculpt it to conceal the dental issue before using a special light or laser to harden it. Finally, they will polish it to a natural shine.

There is no recovery associated with tooth bonding. However, if you received anesthesia or your mouth was numbed, you will need to wait for those effects to subside before resuming all normal activities. It will not impact your schedule and you can even go back to work when you’re done.

Taking care of your bonded teeth is as simple as practicing good dental habits. Brush at least twice a day, floss once a day, and avoid things that could discolor or chip the bonded material. Cigarettes, coffee, red wine, and other staining agents can affect both resin and natural teeth.

How Long Will It Take Before I Get Accustomed to My Bonded Tooth?

Your bonded tooth may feel different under your tongue right after your appointment. You may notice the composite resin material when you speak or chew. These sensations are temporary.

You will quickly adapt to the way that your bonded tooth feels. Most patients forget about it entirely after a few days. If it continues to feel strange, our dentists can make adjustments.

What People Say About Us!

Great personal service! Dr Sun and all the staff are truly amazing and care deeply about our dental and overall health. They have helped us find treatments for some very challenging issues and have been very patient with us as we continue to ask many questions. We highly recommend all the doctors in this practice to anyone looking for great dental care.

How Long Will the Results of My Procedure Last?

Tooth bonding typically lasts between three to ten years. However, there are a lot of factors at play. The bonding material may wear down faster when placed in areas of high bite pressure. Bad habits such as teeth grinding, not brushing regularly, chewing ice, and failing to schedule regular dental appointments can also shorten the lifespan of your dental bonding results.

Considering All of Your Options

Depending on the tooth flaw you would like to correct, one of the following restorations may be more effective than tooth bonding:

• Tooth crown
• Porcelain veneers

It depends largely on the extent of the chip, crack or other damage, and whether more protection – like that provided by a tooth crown – is needed. While dental bonding is a great option for small areas, larger areas of damage may need a more comprehensive solution.

Ready to find out if dental bonding can accomplish your smile goals? To arrange a free initial consultation with our experienced Aurora dentists, please call Aspenwood Dental Associates and Colorado Dental Implant Center at 303-751-3321. We have been practicing in the Denver area for many years, and we look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams.