What is dental bonding? How treatment in Seminole, FL transforms your smile in one visit
Imagine entering Boulevard Dental’s office in Seminole, FL with gaps, chips, cracks, stubborn discoloration, and unsightly-shaped and worn teeth, and emerging with a brand-new smile a short time later. This is not a pipe dream. Our dentists, Drs Wujick, Clark, and Castillo, can dramatically transform the appearance of your teeth in a single visit with one of the most affordable and versatile cosmetic treatments available to modern dentistry: dental bonding.
The basics to achieve your not-so-“basic” smile!
Bonding as a procedure involves preparing a type of dental material and fixing it securely to the front surfaces of the natural, flawed teeth, which are also prepared to “accept” the new flawless, artificial “enamel.” This material, composite resin, is largely a ceramic and plastic compound. Composites may also be formulated with very fine, glass-like or quartz particles to replicate the sheen and the properties of natural tooth enamel.
Our dentists are skilled at matching the color of the composite to the rest of your natural teeth. So, the bonded tooth blends in naturally, seamlessly, and attractively with your smile. Depending on your needs and goals, we can even whiten your teeth and then match the color of the dental composite to your whiter teeth for a dramatic smile boost.
The prepared material is then applied to teeth that have also been prepared. To do so, we abrade or remove a slight amount of natural tooth enamel to “texturize” the surfaces of the teeth to be bonded with composite. This step helps to secure or bond the composite to the natural tooth structure. Our dentists’ artistry shines when they apply the composite as a pliable putty. The material may be shaped to cover gaps between the front teeth, to disguise chips and small fractures, and to camouflage discoloration that resists professional teeth whitening methods. We can also add material and “height” to a worn-down tooth, and alter the contours of a tooth with an irregular shape that detracts from the uniformity of your smile.
Once the material is precisely applied to address your dental concerns, it is bonded or fixed securely to the tooth. Your dentist will then make final refinements to the tooth.
Bonding FAQS
No. Dental bonding is versatile. It may also be used to strengthen teeth weakened by enamel erosion. When the roots of the teeth are exposed due to conditions like gum recession, our dentists may apply a resin to the area to prevent decay and further damage that could threaten the tooth’s structure. Resin is also used as a dental filling material.
Yes. The results from dental bonding look natural when in the hands of our skilled dentists. Our doctors can perfectly match the shade of the resin to your natural teeth. Additionally, resin is formulated with different materials that combine to “mimic” the appearance of natural tooth enamel.
Composite resin is a strong material when bonded to the tooth using special products and techniques; however, several factors can influence the “lifespan” of your bonding. These factors include:
- Brushing and flossing habits.
- Tobacco use.
- Diet.
- Behaviors, such as teeth grinding and biting on hard objects like pens or ice.
To care for your treated teeth, you’ll use products that you likely already have on hand. These include a soft-bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and standard dental floss. The only caveat here is to avoid choosing any abrasive products, which can scratch and break down the resin over time.
No. Resin contains small pores. This porous surface can allow pigments from the foods and drinks we consume to seep into the material, altering the color of your teeth.
You can minimize staining by limiting the consumption of certain foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, tomato sauce, and berries. Tobacco is also a major culprit, which should ideally be avoided for the health of your smile (and overall health). When you do eat or drink staining foods or drinks, rinse immediately with water. Also, maintain professional cleanings at our office. These cleanings not only remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar, but they also lift surface stains.
Patients appreciate that bonding is:
- Fast – Can be completed in one visit.
- Affordable – Costs less than other treatments like veneers.
- Conservative – Keeps all of your teeth intact.
- Natural-looking – Can be shade-matched and shaped to look like natural teeth.
- Comfortable – Not associated with tooth sensitivity, so no numbing is needed for comfort.
Veneers are typically made from porcelain instead of composite resin. This ceramic resists stains well and also reflects light like enamel for a natural appearance. While they cost more upfront than bonding, veneers are durable and can last for several years with good care. This makes them an exceptional value. Treatment is usually completed in two visits because, unlike bonding, the veneers are made in a lab and later secured to your teeth. To accommodate the thickness of the veneer, our dentists usually remove a slight bit of enamel. This step is necessary to ensure that each veneer fits properly on the tooth. When enamel is removed, your tooth will require some covering, so veneers are not as conservative as dental bonding.
Is dental bonding right for you?
We won’t know if bonding is appropriate for you until after we evaluate your smile and discuss your goals for treatment. Your teeth and gums must be healthy to undergo such a process. If you have more extensive needs, such as severe spacing or bite issues, we may recommend orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign®. We can also discuss treatments like porcelain veneers, which are stain-resistant and highly durable and aesthetic alternatives to bonding. Schedule your consultation at our office, in Seminole, today at (727) 308-6224.
