Restore, Reshape and Rejuvenate the Teeth
Cosmetic bonding is a type of filling that can restore and reshape the teeth to improve the function and appearance of your smile. The dental bonding material used at Abra Dental (formerly ChildSmiles•FamilySmiles) is a composite resin or moldable ceramic. It works by hardening and fusing to the tooth when a special light cures the material.
Bonding is one of the most simple and least expensive cosmetic dental procedures. It is most often recommended to improve the appearance of a discolored or chipped tooth.
Who is a Candidate for Cosmetic Bonding?
Schedule a consultation with one of Abra Dental’s dentists to determine if bonding may be a solution for your particular dental concerns. We will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums to determine which treatment can help meet your long-term goals.
Abra Dental’s dentists may recommend cosmetic bonding for you to:
- Repair decayed teeth
- Repair chipped or cracked teeth
- Improve the appearance of discoloration
- Close spaces between the teeth
- Make teeth look younger
- Change the shape of the teeth
- Protect a portion of the tooth’s root
How Cosmetic Bonding Works
Cosmetic bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the tooth and curing it with a high-intensity light. Cosmetic bondings are a quick and simple procedure that can encourage a long-lasting and healthy smile for years to come.
One of Abra Dental’s specially trained dentists will begin by applying a thin layer of bonding material to the tooth. Then, they will sculpt it like clay to ensure a proper shape or correct the cosmetic concern. Using a special light, your dentist will harden the material and fuse it with the existing tooth.
Finally, your dentist will polish the bonding until it is smooth. The entire cosmetic bonding procedure only takes about an hour to perform, but results can last up to 10 years in a clean and healthy mouth.
Benefits of Cosmetic Bonding
One of the most popular benefits of cosmetic bonding is that bonded teeth look and function exactly like natural teeth. Your dentist can choose a bonding material that matches the color of your current teeth and mold it to fit the desired shape. When cosmetic bonding is performed by an experienced dentist, such as the ones at Abra Dental, most people will not be able to tell that you’ve had a procedure at all! All they will notice is how amazing your smile looks.
Another benefit of cosmetic bonding is that no preparation is required, and anesthesia is not usually necessary. The only time when anesthesia will be rendered useful is if the bonding agent will be used for filling in a decayed tooth.
How Long Does Cosmetic Bonding Last?
The lifespan of cosmetic bonding depends on how much bonding was used and the individual patient’s oral habits. That considered, the bonding material may last anywhere from 3-10 years before needing to be touched up or replaced.
Maintain the Look of Cosmetic Bonding
To avoid staining the resin, avoid tea, coffee, cigarette smoke and dark-colored foods, especially during the first 48 hours after treatment. Bonded teeth require the same care as natural teeth, so it is essential to brush at least twice a day and floss. Talk with your Abra Dental dentists about other ways you can help make your beautiful smile last longer! They will be happy to provide you with education and tips on how to maintain proper oral hygiene and care for your bonds for as long as possible.