Questions about Tooth Bonding

Serving Fort Worth and University Park

What is tooth bonding?
Tooth bonding is a procedure used to correct dental gaps, chips, cracks and a wide variety of other cosmetic dental problems. Dental bonding involves a tooth-colored resin material which is applied to teeth, and then hardened with a special light. This causes the resin to bond to the tooth, restoring and correcting the smile.

For what conditions is teeth bonding considered?

• Decayed teeth
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Teeth with gaps or spaces
• Teeth which appear too short
• Dental bonding can change the shape of teeth
• Dental bonding can be used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings
• Dental bonding can be used to protect any tooth's root which has been exposed when the gums recede

What is the procedure for having a tooth bonded?
Teeth bonding requires very little advanced preparation. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth, which can be painful. Your dentist will select a composite resin color that will closely match the color of your tooth, for the most natural look possible.

During the first step of the bonding procedure, the surface of the tooth will be roughened and a conditioning liquid applied. This helps the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The tooth-colored, putty-like resin is then applied, molded and smoothed to the desired shape. An ultraviolet light is then used to harden the material. After the material is hardened, your dentist will further trim and shape the resin, and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface. This takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete, per tooth.

Bonding is among the easiest and least expensive of all cosmetic dental procedures. Unlike veneers and crowns, which must be manufactured in a laboratory, bonding usually can be done in one office visit. Additionally, less tooth enamel is removed compared to procedures involving veneers and crowns. Also, anesthesia is usually not required, unless the bonding involves a cavity.

Teeth bonding is best suited for small cosmetic changes, temporary correction of cosmetic defects, and for correction of teeth in areas of very low bite pressure, such as front teeth.

Do Bonded Teeth Require Special Care?
Generally, no. Good oral hygiene practices are typically enough. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss at least once a day and see your dentist for regular professional check-ups and cleanings.

However, bonding materials can chip. Avoid:

• biting your fingernails
• chewing on pens, ice or other hard food objects
• using your bonded teeth as a bottle opener.

If you notice any sharp edges on a bonded tooth, or if your bonded tooth feels odd when you bite down, call your dentist.

How Long Does Bonding Material Last?
Typically, anywhere from three to 10 years. However, this depends on how much bonding was done and how you treat your bonded teeth.

How Much Does Tooth Bonding Cost?
Generally, anywhere from $100 to $400 per tooth. Your bonding may be fully or partially covered by insurance, so check with your insurance company or your dentist to see if they offer financing options which fit your needs.

What Can I Expect?
You should be satisfied with nothing less then repaired, natural-looking teeth. The quality of the teeth bonding depends largely upon the skill of the cosmetic dentist. Dr. Strader trained at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and has extensive experience bonding teeth. He is an expert at applying the tooth-colored resin -- the end result will be very natural looking in terms of size, shape and color.

If you live in the Dallas area please contact Dr. Strader today. Tooth bonding is a safe, simple procedure -- you'll be enjoying your new smile sooner than you think!