Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding is a process in which your dentist uses specially formulated tooth-colored material to repair minor defects on the surface of your teeth. The bonding material itself is a type of composite resin — a tough, translucent mixture of plastic and glass components that mimics the pearly-white appearance of your teeth to a high degree. The material also bonds (links up) so well with the natural tooth structure that this relatively simple and inexpensive treatment can last for a number of years.

Cosmetic Bonding can be used to remedy several different kinds of flaws in your smile. Small chips, cracks and areas of discoloration can be easily treated via cosmetic bonding. It can even be used to fix minor spacing irregularities. Best of all, because composite resin is available in various shades to match the natural color of your teeth, it’s almost impossible to tell which tooth has been treated.

Cosmetic Bonding is a minimally invasive, reversible treatment that normally causes little or no discomfort. The tooth being treated is first thoroughly cleaned, and then “etched” with a gel that microscopically roughens its surface. Next, the gel is rinsed off, and liquid composite resin (in a shade chosen to match the tooth) is painted on with a brush. Then, the bonding material is cured (hardened) using a special light. After it has cured, another layer may be applied; this process can be repeated several times to build up a thicker coating. Finally, a dental instrument is used to shape the built-up material into its final, pleasing form.

Not especially, but like all teeth, they should be brushed and flossed daily, and professionally cleaned at the dental office twice a year. Bonded teeth can also become stained from tobacco use, red wine and coffee — but unlike regular teeth, bonded teeth can’t be lightened. So if you’re considering tooth-whitening treatments, have them done before your teeth are bonded.

Cosmetic Bonding is among the easiest and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures. Unlike veneers and crowns, which are customized tooth coverings that must be manufactured in a laboratory, bonding usually can be done in one office visit unless several teeth are involved. Another advantage, compared with veneers and crowns, is that the least amount of tooth enamel is removed. Also, unless dental bonding is being performed to fill a cavity, anesthesia is usually not required.

The lifespan of bonding materials depends on how much bonding was done and your oral habits. Typically, however, bonding material lasts from 3 years up to about 10 years before needing to be touched up or replaced.

The cosmetic bonding procedure is relatively painless and most of our clients don’t require painkillers. You may experience some tooth sensitivity when eating and drinking cold and hot things. If you experience this side effect, you can take an over-the-counter pain medication for relief.

You don’t have to wait. You can eat or drink right away. Be aware that you may experience some slight tooth sensitivity to hot and cold foods and drinks after the procedure.

Cosmetic bonding usually has the best results in areas that experience less pressure from chewing. This usually means that front teeth are elected to be fixed for practical and aesthetic reasons. 

If you wish to repair a chipped tooth that’s not in the front, it’s still worth bringing up to your dentist. We can create a customized dental plan to eliminate any physical discomfort or self-esteem issues.

It is possible that cosmetic bonding may slightly alter the way your retainer or other oral appliance fits. However, the effect should be minimal.