Cosmetic Dentist

Modesto, Manteca, Ceres, Turlock, Salida, Ripon, California Dentist

Questions About Tooth Bonding

 

What is tooth bonding?

Tooth bonding, also known as dental bonding, uses a tooth-colored composite resin to repair or correct minor dental problems and protect the integrity of the bonded teeth.

 

What dental problems can tooth bonding correct?

 

• Chipped, cracked or broken teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Spaced teeth
• Misshaped teeth
• Decayed or eroded teeth

 

Am I a candidate for tooth bonding?

 

Although tooth bonding can correct a diverse array of dental problems, it is not the best solution for all cases. For some patients, tooth crowns, veneer-like Lumineers or porcelain inlays/onlays may provide a better and more durable result. A consultation with an experienced Modesto dentist from Sierra Dental Care can help determine if dental bonding is the right option for your individual condition.

 

What is the tooth bonding process?

 

The surface of the involved tooth or teeth will be lightly roughened with a mild abrasive. Then a conditioning liquid that will help the resin adhere to the tooth or teeth will be applied. A composite resin that closely matches the color of your teeth will be molded over or around your teeth, then hardened with an ultraviolet light. After the resin has dried and hardened, it will be further refined and polished to match the look of your natural teeth. Unless your dental bonding is for filling a decayed tooth, anesthesia is usually not necessary.

 

How long is the tooth bonding procedure?

 

The duration of a dental bonding treatment varies based on the individual and the extent of work, but most tooth bonding procedures are completed in a single visit.

 

How long does tooth bonding last?

 

Depending on the extent of tooth bonding, which teeth were bonded and how you care for your teeth, dental bonding typically lasts three to 10 years. Previously bonded teeth can often be touched up if you notice changes in their appearance.

 

Do bonded teeth require special care?

 

Practicing good oral hygiene is usually enough to care for your bonded teeth. You should brush your teeth at least twice per day, floss at least once daily and visit your Modesto general dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. To preserve the structure and appearance of your bonded teeth, you may wish to avoid hard foods, bad dental habits such as ice chewing and nail biting, smoking, and drinking wine and coffee.

 

Will my tooth bonding be visible to others?

 

No. The resin color is matched to your natural teeth and sculpted to fit within your existing teeth.

 

What are the advantages of tooth bonding over Lumineers or crowns?

 

Tooth bonding requires little tooth enamel to be removed before placing the resin. Most dental bonding patients do not require anesthesia for the procedure. Tooth bonding is often a less-expensive solution than other restorative procedures.

 

Are there disadvantages to tooth bonding?

 

Tooth bonding is best suited to minor dental issues and for people without severe tooth decay or gum disease. Although durable, the resin used in dental bonding is not as long-lasting or stain-resistant as Lumineers or crowns.

 

If you would like to schedule an appointment to see if tooth bonding might be right for you, please contact the qualified Modesto cosmetic dentists at Sierra Dental Care. Sierra Dental Care provides quality general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry to patients in the Modesto, Ripon, Ceres, Salida, Turlock, and Manteca, California areas.