A General Dentist Can Use Bonding to Repair Teeth

Dental Bonding Fort Lee, NJ

General dentists use bonding to help repair damaged teeth. What is bonding, and how is it used to repair teeth? Keep reading for an overview of what bonding is and why it is used as a treatment method. 

This type of procedure is very useful for many different dental issues. Your dentist will be able to provide you with options for your specific situation, and tooth bonding may come up as one of the options more times than you may think. 

What is tooth bonding?

In dentistry, bonding is a procedure in which a resin material is applied to the teeth to help repair the tooth. The resin, composed of a sort of plastic material, is hardened using a special light. The final result is the special material that has been bound to the tooth, thus helping restore the tooth and the patient's smile. 

When is tooth bonding necessary?

Dental bonding may be used in several different situations, whether to improve the patient's smile or restore the tooth. Common uses for bonding include:

  • Reparation of decayed teeth
  • Reparation of cracked or chipped teeth
  • Adjust the shape of the teeth, possibly to look longer
  • Close gaps between teeth
  • Protect areas of the tooth root exposed by gum recession

Teeth bonding is a relatively simple and inexpensive cosmetic dental procedure. The process can typically be completed in a single office visit providing there is only one tooth involved. This procedure does not remove as much of the tooth's enamel as other procedures, which is the natural protector of the tooth.

What to expect from the teeth bonding process?

Since teeth bonding is relatively simple, there is very little preparation necessary before the procedure. Anesthesia is usually not needed, but in cases where the bonding material is filling a decayed tooth, it may be needed if the tooth will need to be drilled. 

The bonding process itself starts with the dentist roughing the tooth's surface. They will then apply a conditioning liquid, which helps the material attach to the tooth. The resin, which is colored to mimic the rest of the teeth, is applied and shaped to achieve the desired appearance.

The material will be given time to harden; then, the dentist will continue shaping the material and finish off with a polish. The process can take between thirty to sixty minutes to complete for each tooth. 

Aftercare for bonded teeth

Dental bonding usually needs to be replaced roughly every five to ten years, although it does vary from case to case. Ensuring you take proper care of your teeth will help lengthen the lifespan of the bonded tooth. 

As normal, you should be brushing at least twice per day and flossing once per day. Avoid hard foods and candies and habits such as biting your nails, which can chip or break the bonding materials. 

Coffee, tea, and tobacco can stain the material, so you should avoid consuming or using these products for at least the first two days following the procedure. 

It is important to see a general dentist on a routine schedule for upkeep and care of your teeth, including your dental bonding. If you notice any rough or sharp edges after the procedure, reach out to your dentist, and they will help smoothen or fix the issue. 

Your dentist can help

Your general dentist is the best person to ask when you have questions or concerns about your dental health. They know your oral history best and can provide you with alternatives and options to any oral issue you may be having. 

It is also good to call your dental insurance carrier and ask how much any procedure, such as tooth bonding, will cost you. In most cases, this is seen as preventative care, and you should be able to have the procedure with little cost to you. However, every insurance policy is different depending on your specific contract. 

Feel free to ask your dental office to help you provide the dental carrier with the most specific facts and terminology so you can get the most reliable answer on pricing. 

Remember to see your dentist regularly and take their advice when they recommend any type of dental treatment to you. You want to keep your teeth healthy and your smile inviting for all those around you. Don't put off dental treatment. You will benefit in the long run. 

Request an appointment here: https://fortleefamilydental.com or call Fort Lee Family Dental at (201) 620-9772 for an appointment in our Fort Lee office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bonding in Fort Lee, NJ.

Recent Posts

Is Dental Bonding A Cosmetic Dental Procedure?

A dental bonding procedure is a treatment that involves applying tooth-colored resin and using a special light to harden it. It is primarily a cosmetic procedure but may also be used to treat some dental conditions.Many dentists use dental bonding for small cosmetic alterations, short-term corrections of cosmetic issues, and repairing teeth in areas with…

Dental Bonding Benefits For Tooth Repair

Dental bonding is a great way to repair cosmetic damage in your teeth. Imperfections in your teeth can leave you feeling self-conscious and unconfident which can have an impact on your quality of life. This simple procedure can help you by restoring a smile you can be proud of. Let's take a closer look at…

When A Dentist Would Recommend Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a common procedure in which the dentist uses a tooth-colored material called resin to fill in gaps and repair cracked or chipped teeth. Though bonding is a safe, low-maintenance procedure, it is not appropriate for all teeth or all patients who need a tooth repaired. When performed correctly, this option is a…

Consider A Dental Bonding Treatment Instead Of A Crown

Typically, when we think about what to do with a damaged or broken tooth, we think about getting a crown, but what if there were a better option, such as a dental bonding treatment. While a crown may be the typical choice when restoring a tooth that has been damaged, there are several benefits to…

Recent Posts

Preventative Dental Care: X Rays And Cleanings

Preventative Dental Care: X-Rays And Cleanings

When you visit your dentist, preventative dental care should be at the forefront of your mind. Nobody enjoys getting extra work done because of the cost and time and because it can result in some uncomfortable procedures. Cavities, gingivitis, and other diseases are preventable with the correct oral hygiene. X-rays and cleanings done at your…

Bring Back A Stronger Smile With Implant Supported Dentures

Bring Back A Stronger Smile With Implant Supported Dentures

Implant supported dentures combine traditional dentures with permanent dental implants to provide a stable and secure tooth restoration option. Unlike traditional removable dentures, this option is supported by two or more dental implants rather than your gum tissues. The additional stability of dental implants may make it simpler to bite and chew meals, particularly with…