Cosmetic bonding is a fast, easy, effective cosmetic dental treatment that can improve the appearance of your smile in a single dental visit. If you have minor flaws in your smile, an experienced cosmetic dentist can correct them safely and swiftly with cosmetic bonding.
What is Cosmetic Bonding?
Cosmetic bonding (AKA dental bonding) uses a composite resin material matched to the color of your teeth, to correct minor flaws in your smile. The material used to correct minor flaws is the same material used in restorative dental treatments including dental fillings.
Cosmetic bonding is so safe that it is approved for use in children and adults. It is one of the most common and affordable treatments to improve the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic bonding is a low-risk treatment, rarely producing mild side effects such as temporary sensitivity.
Imperfections That Cosmetic Dental Bonding Can Fix
Cosmetic bonding is versatile, allowing your cosmetic dentist to use it to achieve multiple goals.
Cosmetic bonding can correct flaws such as:
- Small chips in teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Conceal tooth discoloration
- Conceal minor cracks in teeth
- Lengthen the teeth
- Reshape misshapen teeth
Cosmetic Bonding: What to Expect
Patients in good oral health, who are free of active gum disease or tooth decay that needs to be treated immediately, are typically excellent candidates for cosmetic bonding. Once you’ve shared your cosmetic goals with your dentist, they will select a shade of composite resin that closely matches your natural shade.
The tooth will then be prepared for the bond. This simply requires that the dentist roughen the surface of the tooth using a very mild acid. Then a liquid will be applied which will bond the composite resin to the tooth.
Your dentist will then apply the composite resin and begin shaping the tooth. Lastly, ultraviolet light will be used to cure the composite resin.
Composite bonding does not require anesthesia, and there is no recovery time required. Once the composite resin has fully cured (hardened) your treatment will be complete. The entire process typically takes an hour or less, depending on the number of teeth treated.
Bonding is not a permanent cosmetic treatment. You will need to repeat the bond, but many people find that the bond lasts up to 10 years before needing to be replaced.
Caring for Your Teeth After Cosmetic Bonding
Teeth that have been treated with bonding do not require special care. Continue to brush twice daily and floss daily. See your dentist every six months for oral exams and cleanings.
It's important to note that bonding isn’t as strong as a dental veneer or a dental crown, so you must avoid using your teeth as tools, chewing ice, hard candy, or pens. If your bond chips, contact your dentist to have it repaired.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cosmetic Bonding
How much does cosmetic bonding cost?
It depends on how many teeth you need to bond. But, cosmetic dental bonding is one of the most affordable cosmetic treatments. For an accurate estimate, book a consultation.
Does cosmetic dental bonding hurt?
No. It is a non-invasive treatment. Most people do not even require local anesthesia for cosmetic bonding. You may return to normal activities immediately after cosmetic bonding.