Have you recently had a dental accident? Chipped teeth happen more than you think, but luckily, there are several options to repair them. One of the most popular and affordable ways to repair a chipped tooth is enamel bonding, also called dental bonding. If you have recently chipped or cracked a tooth, or have discoloration you would like to correct, dental bonding might be the perfect option for you.
What Is Dental Bonding Used For?
Dental bonding is when a composite resin is applied to the surface of the tooth to repair it. The dental procedure is inexpensive, effective, and usually completed in a single trip to the dentist. Dental bonding is used to treat a variety of dental issues, the most common being chipped or discolored teeth. It is also commonly used to close gaps between teeth or to change their shape.
What is the Dental Bonding Procedure?
Dental bonding is a relatively quick and minimally invasive outpatient procedure. Here are the steps you can expect during a dental bonding procedure:
- Step 1: The dental provider will clean the tooth or teeth to be treated to create the best possible surface for bonding.
- Step 2: Next, they will apply the composite resin to the teeth and shape the bonding material into the desired appearance.
- Step 3: Using a UV light, the bonding material will then be hardened.
- Step 4: Last, your provider will polish the bonding for a natural shine.
Overall, the bonding procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour to complete. If you have several teeth to be treated, your provider may develop a treatment plan that requires a series of visits rather than completing all of the bonding in one appointment.
What Are the Risks to Dental Bonding?
One of the only risks associated with dental bonding is that the composite resin is not as strong as a natural tooth, making it more susceptible to chipping or breaking. Thus, habits such as biting fingernails or chewing on hard objects like ice or pens will increase the risk of damaging the resin. If you have these tendencies, it is worth discussing them with your provider before undergoing a dental bonding treatment.
How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?
Depending on the size of the treated area or the number of teeth treated, dental bonding can last anywhere from three to ten years before needing repairs or replacements. Good daily hygiene practices, such as twice-daily brushing and flossing, will significantly extend the life of a dental bonding treatment. Maintaining regular dental visits for routine cleanings will also help keep your teeth and gums healthy and ensure your dental bonding lasts as long as possible.
Here are a few tips to help protect and extend the life of your dental bonding:
- Avoid chewing on ice, hard candy, and pens.
- Do not pick at the bonding or put sharp objects in your mouth.
- Wear a mouthguard for sports and to prevent grinding at night.
- Rinse your mouth with water after consuming highly acidic foods.
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