Teeth change over time. If you notice minor chipping, cracking, gapping, or staining on your teeth, it can be fixed with dental bonding. Tooth imperfections can affect your confidence and, if not addressed, they can lead to severe dental issues.
Cosmetic dentistry in Etobicoke is designed to protect and improve your oral health and enhance your natural smile. Keep reading to learn more about dental bonding.
What Is Tooth Bonding?
Tooth bonding, also known as dental bonding, is a dental procedure wherein a thin layer of composite resin is applied to the tooth’s surface to cover flaws and blemishes. It is a common cosmetic procedure that can address small cracks, chips and tooth discolouration. It can also be used to fill in small gaps between teeth as an alternative to braces.
Benefits of Dental Bonding
The benefits of dental bonding go beyond just enhancing your smile. Dental bonding is designed to address cracked or chipped teeth as well as “cover” discoloured teeth. It is a versatile solution for closing small gaps between teeth and safeguards all of your teeth.
The composite resin material used can be shaped to match the adjacent teeth to create a natural-looking smile. As a cost-effective dental procedure, bonding is painless and only takes minutes to complete. Many patients choose bonding over porcelain veneers when possible. Since the procedure involves applying resin to the surface of the tooth, it doesn’t change the structure of the tooth and it can be reversed or replaced if needed.
With proper dental hygiene and regularly scheduled dental checkups, modern resin applications should only require touch-ups or replacement once every five to 10 years.
Can Teeth Bonding Fix Common Smile Flaws?
Dental bonding can close gaps between the teeth, remove teeth stains, and fix chipped teeth. However, there are some limitations to tooth bonding. If you have extensive damage or severely misaligned teeth, dental bonding may not be suitable for you. Schedule a thorough examination and consultation with a dentist to determine the extent of dental work you need.
In addition, the material used for dental bonding is not stain-resistant and is susceptible to chipping over time. This means it might require repairs, replacement, or removal if another dental treatment is needed for the adjacent teeth.
Alternatively, if you have severe chipping, gaps, or stained teeth, you might want to consider having veneers or crowns placed on your teeth. Veneers are customized “shells” that can be modified to change the colour, shape and size of your tooth. This is a potential solution for gaps in the teeth. Crowns are custom moulded to the shape of your tooth and are used to protect the structure of a cracked or chipped tooth. Crowns can improve the functionality of your tooth.
The Bonding Process: What to Expect
Before opting for a dental bonding treatment, it’s important to consult with an experienced dentist to get an examination and ensure bonding is the best solution for your situation. Your dentist might recommend getting a thorough cleaning first and may even suggest teeth whitening to address the discolouration since the bonding material cannot be bleached.
During the procedure, an adhesive is applied to the surface of your teeth so that the resin bonds securely. The resin is moulded to the shape of your tooth and hardened using a light. Your teeth are then buffed to smooth out roughness before they are polished.
You can resume normal daily activities, such as eating and drinking immediately following the procedure.
Essential Aftercare Tips for Bonded Teeth
To care for and maintain your teeth after a tooth bonding procedure, it’s important to follow proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss daily. Avoid foods and beverages that can stain your teeth and refrain from using products that contain tobacco. Scheduling regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings can help protect the bonding for years to come. Never use your teeth to open packages, chew on hard surfaces and/or bite your fingernails.
Frequently Asked Questions Dental Bonding
How Long Does Tooth Bonding Last?
With proper care and regular dental visits tooth bonding can last up to 10 years before it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Is the Procedure Painful?
No, the dental bonding process itself is not painful but it can cause sensitivity for some patients for the first few days.
Can Bonding Be Repaired if Damaged?
Yes, existing dental bonding can be repaired or reversed at any time because it doesn’t affect the structure of the enamel.
How Much Does Dental Bonding Cost?
Dental bonding costs between $300 and $600 per tooth depending on the material used and how much of the tooth surface will be covered.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding may be partially or fully covered under many insurance plans. Speak to our staff about our payment plans if you are required to pay out-of-pocket.
How Do I Know Which Procedure Is Best for Me?
Consult with your general dentist in Toronto and Etobicoke to discuss the best oral health plan for your teeth.
Unlock a Brighter Smile with Teeth Bonding! Schedule a Consultation at Princeview in Etobicoke
Protect your teeth and enhance your natural smile by scheduling a bonding treatment at Princeview Dental Group. We offer cost-effective dental procedures to correct chipped, stained, gapping and discoloured teeth at our dental clinic in Etobicoke. Contact us today at (416) 231-4562 to schedule a consultation for affordable teeth bonding near you!
