Dental Bonding in Colorado

Teeth Bonding

Tooth bonding is the application of a tooth-colored resin material using a high intensity curing light. Typically used in cosmetic dentistry, for cosmetic purposes, tooth bonding literally bonds the materials to the tooth. Applications for tooth bonding include;

• To fill the spaces between teeth
• To make teeth look longer
• To change the shape of a tooth
• To change the color of a tooth
• As an alternative to amalgam dental fillings or to protect a tooth with exposed gum or nerve
• To repair decayed teeth
• To repair chipped or cracked teeth

Tooth bonding, also called dental bonding is a procedure that takes very little time to prepare. Typically, unless the bonding is used on exposed nerves or to fill a decayed tooth, dental bonding does not require the use of anesthetics, making it a fast and comfortable procedure.

Generally there are two types of dental bonding:

• Direct Bonding- the process where a dentist uses tooth-colored composites to fill cavities, repair chips or cracks, close gaps and build up worn down teeth. These materials may also be directly applied and sculpted to the surface of teeth in order to maximize the enhancement of a smile.
• Adhesive Bonding- the process of attaching a restoration to a tooth. Adhesive bonding is commonly used with esthetic crowns, porcelain veneers, bridges and inlays/outlays. In this process the dentist first chooses a color and shape that matches the teeth, the surface of the tooth is then roughened to ensure a successful bond. Next the liquid bonding agent is applied and the tooth-colored putty-like resin is applied over that. The substance is then molded and smoothed out to match the rest of the teeth and then hardened with an ultraviolet curing light. This process can be repeated as needed in order to achieve the desired shape and fit.

Caring for bonded teeth is the same as caring for natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and routine check-ups, as directed by your Denver dentist, will help to maintain the bonded teeth and make them last a long time. One thing to avoid with bonded teeth is biting hard objects such as fingernails, ice, or hard types of food.

Dental bonding is a good choice that can solve a number of dental health problems. It is typically the most common and least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedure. Overall dental bonding is a relatively short procedure and requires little to no removal of tooth enamel. It is also relatively pain free and seldom requires the use of anesthetics, making for a short and comfortable dental appointment. For further information please contact Cosmetic Dentistry Today.