With all the modern innovations in dentistry these days there is a lot less to dread when the need arises for a visit to the dentist. Of all the procedures done by dentists, dental bonding is by far the least invasive, and much of it can be done without anesthetics. In fact, a lot of dental bonding procedure is done for cosmetic reasons like filling out a chipped tooth that is otherwise healthy. This is especially true of front teeth that may have been chipped without going far enough to damage or expose the nerve. In that case the only need for doing a bonding procedure is purely esthetic—a jagged front tooth (or teeth) does not make for an attractive smile.
So, what exactly is dental bonding performed by a Murray dentist?
It all has to do with filling in gaps or building up teeth with a special dental compound mixed to match the color of the existing teeth and applied like a form of modeling substance that can be rendered in the desired shape of the teeth much the same way a sculptor would shape a statue. In the case of a cavity where a previous filling has come out, this dental compounding material is inserted and shaped to conform to the normal looking surface of the tooth.
With cosmetic dentistry to correct the look of chipped front teeth, the bonding material is applied and shaped to restore the natural line so that the patient\’s smile is once again even. Although drilling may be unnecessary, the dentist may need to do some light grinding of the existing tooth so that the bonding material will adhere better. Once put into place, the material is hardened almost instantly by exposure to a UV light.
Not only is dental bonding used to fill gaps in teeth or restore chipped incisors for a more attractive appearance, the same resin may also be used to fill cavities that once were filled with an unsightly metal filling. It is a quick and almost painless procedure that may not necessitate anesthetic shots to the gums.
Bonded dental veneers are often used to reshape teeth, remove gaps between teeth resulting in a more even appearance without the expense of crowns and bridges. Not everything is cosmetic dental bonding, however. Bonding may also be used to protect a tooth root caused by a receding gum.
There are advantages and disadvantages to dental bonding that patients need to be aware of. On the plus side, it is simple to do and is definitely the least costly dental procedure to correct minor defects in the mouth. Usually any type of dental bonding procedure can be performed in one visit to the dentist. Dental bonding disturbs the least amount of natural tooth enamel. On the other hand, a bond may chip and take off a portion of the tooth with it, and the bonding resin does not resist discolorations as well as crowns or thorough veneers.
Some dentists will only use bonding for light cosmetic changes or even temporary cosmetic corrections. With bonded teeth, it is also necessary to practice good oral hygiene but typically a dental bonding procedure may be expected to last from three to ten years.