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What Is Dental Bonding?

person-smiling-with-dental-bonding

Have you been considering improving the appearance of your teeth but are concerned about the cost of cosmetic dental services and lengthy procedures that require multiple visits? Dental bonding can provide you with a non-invasive option to help repair or modify the appearance of your teeth. Is tooth bonding right for your needs? If you’re asking these questions, it’s best to learn more about dental bonding procedures and how to know if they may be the best option for your smile.

When you want quality restoration work in a friendly dental office, you can count on the professionals at Dental Designs of Maryland-Hanover. We offer a wide array of cosmetic dental services, including dental bonding. Our goal is for you to love your smile when you look in the mirror, and we have the expertise and technology to make that happen. Call us today at 443.733.6879 or visit us online to schedule a consultation and determine if tooth bonding can help you get the look you are after.

What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a procedure used to repair damage or imperfections of the teeth.

Tooth bonding may be used for:

  • Repairing cracked or chipped teeth
  • Filling a gap in teeth
  • Lengthening teeth
  • Covering exposed roots from receding gums
  • Adjusting the shape of teeth

During a tooth bonding procedure, a composite resin will be used to cover or fill in a portion of your tooth to address the issue. Composite resin is a tooth-colored material that starts soft like a paste and dries hard to resemble tooth enamel.

Your dentist can adjust the resin color to match the color of your teeth closely. Teeth whitening does not work on composite resin, and bonding can become discolored over time. For this reason, many people choose to do any whitening procedures before tooth bonding.

Is Dental Bonding Right for You?

If you need restoration work on your teeth, you may be wondering if you should try dental bonding. There are several restoration procedures to choose from, and each has its own pros and cons.

Dental bonding may be ideal for you if:

  • You are looking for the most affordable restoration option. Tooth bonding typically costs less than veneers or crowns.
  • You only have minor tooth damage. If you are missing a significant portion of your tooth, you may need a crown or dental implant.
  • You are willing to change some of your habits to protect your dental work. While composite resin is a durable material, it is not as strong as tooth enamel. You will need to refrain from tough foods, chewing on pens or your fingernails, and using your teeth to open bottles or cans.

Many people prefer the convenience and affordability that tooth bonding offers. You can have the work done in your dentist’s office in under an hour for most bonding procedures. Typically, there is no anesthesia or follow-up visit required. And with proper care, your dental bonding can last up to ten years before needing replacement.

What to Know Before Dental Bonding

If you are interested in having a dental bonding procedure, there are a few things to keep in mind, which are:

  • If you are unhappy with the shade of your teeth, have teeth whitening done before your dental bonding.
  • Understand that coffee, tea, wine, and smoking can discolor composite resin.
  • Bonding can chip more easily than tooth enamel, so avoid habits that are tough on your teeth.

If you grind your teeth, you may be more susceptible to damaging your dental bonding. Discuss bruxism with your dentist to determine whether you are a good candidate for tooth bonding.

Choose Dental Designs of Maryland-Hanover for High-Quality Cosmetic Dental Services

Do not let cracked or misshapen teeth leave you feeling self-conscious about your smile. Our highly skilled dentists at Dental Designs of Maryland-Hanover have got you covered with a vast array of cosmetic dentistry procedures, including tooth bonding, veneers, and teeth whitening. Reach out to us today online or at 443.733.6879 to schedule a consultation so we can discuss how to create your most beautiful smile.