Dental bonding is an aesthetic procedure for restoring minor dental defects with photopolymers. The high-quality composite material is shaped and polished to adapt to the rest of the tooth, as well as the adjacent teeth. It must contain different pigments that perfectly match the colour of the teeth.
Bonding is the best option for solving a number of dental problems. And a very good choice in aesthetic dentistry when the patient desires minimal cosmetic adjustments.
The most common cases in which bonding is applied are:
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treatment of dental caries and tooth building;
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closing gaps between teeth;
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changing the shape of teeth;
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restoring cutting edges and lengthening teeth;
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correction of stained teeth;
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raising the bite height.
The procedure has its benefits as well as its risks. Learning about the pros and cons will help you decide whether or not dental bonding is right for you.
Advantages of Bonding
Composite restorations give highly aesthetically pleasing results with the option of additional adjustments to the mouth.
- Speed – the manipulation is most often done in one visit – no need to wait weeks or months before seeing what your new smile will look like.
- Non-invasive – the procedure is extremely gentle to the enamel and in most cases does not require filing of the teeth, and when this is necessary, it is minimal and painless.
- Affordability – Cheaper than ceramic veneers, bonding is the most budget-friendly option for aesthetic restoration.
Disadvantages of Bonding
- Relative short-term durability – the restorations keep their good appearance for several years, but the photopolymer changes its qualities over time (it discolours or loses its gloss) and needs to be replaced.
- Photopolymer materials are not as durable compared to ceramics and break and crack more easily.
The durability of bonding depends a lot on its care – oral hygiene and the presence of harmful habits. Here are some tips for proper dental care after the procedure:
- Do not chew hard candy, ice, or hard objects;
- Don’t bite your nails;
- Avoid grinding your teeth or clenching your jaw.
It is recommended to avoid:
- Red wine, carbonated drinks, tea, coffee;
- Foods with artificial colors like candy;
- Acidic foods that can destroy not only the bonding, but also the natural teeth;
- Smoking.
If you are considering the bonding procedure, contact SHABAB DENT today. Our experienced dentists will take the time to explain the procedure and the risks involved.
We look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams!