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What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding, also known as composite bonding, is a procedure that employs the application of a tooth-colored resin material to teeth. Bonding is a method used to fix a tooth's cosmetic and/or structural flaws.

  1. Conditions

    • Both structural and cosmetic conditions can be alleviated by dental bonding. Structural conditions include the repair of decayed teeth, the repair of chipped or cracked teeth, and the protection of exposed roots due to gum recession. Dental bonding may also improve the appearance of discolored teeth, close the spaces between teeth, give the impression of longer teeth, change the shape of teeth and provide an alternative to amalgam fillings. For misaligned teeth, bonding may provide a straighter smile.

    Procedure

    • Bonding does not require much advance preparation. Unless a decayed tooth is being filled, anesthesia is often unnecessary. The dentist begins by selecting a composite resin to match the patient's natural tooth color. The surface of the tooth is roughened, then a conditioning liquid is applied. Roughening allows the resin to adhere properly to the tooth. The resin is then applied to the tooth. The dentist molds and smoothes the resin to achieve the desired shape. The dentist then hardens the resin by applying a high intensity light, either laser or ultraviolet. Once the resin has hardened, the dentist will further shape and polish the tooth to match the appearance of the surrounding teeth. The procedure may take 30 to 60 minutes to complete.

    Benefits

    • Composite bonding is an alternative to more expensive procedures such as porcelain veneers, bridges and crowns. The average cost of bonding ranges from $300 to $600 per tooth, while the average cost of a veneer ranges from $700 to $2000 per tooth. Bonding may be performed in one visit, unlike veneers, which are customized and made in a lab. The amount of tooth enamel that needs to be removed for bonding is less than that needed for veneers or crowns. The composite resin expands and contracts with the tooth, preventing cracks and tooth loss.

    Limitations

    • The composite resin is somewhat stain-resistant, but not as stain-resistant as a crown. The bonding material is not as strong as a veneer or a crown, which may cause the resin to chip and break off of the tooth. Due to the limitations, bonding is often suggested for small cosmetic changes and temporary cosmetic defect correction.

    Post-Procedure

    • Bonding does not require special maintenance. Patients are to follow standard oral hygiene practices: Brush at least twice a day, floss once a day and schedule regular checkups and cleanings. Avoidance of fingernail biting, ice chewing and the use of teeth as an opener will help prevent the resin from chipping.

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