Teeth Bonding: Economical Cosmetic Treatment at Bowersox DDS
Tooth bonding is a minimally invasive and cost-effective approach to repairing or concealing small blemishes on your teeth surfaces. If you have a stain on your tooth that is resistant to teeth whitening solutions, we can conceal the stain with tooth bonding. Additionally, if your tooth is mildly chipped or misshapen, we can fill them into a more seamless shape with tooth bonding.
As your trusted cosmetic dentist in Westminster, MD, Dr. Bowersox utilizes a tooth-colored resin, similar to a dental filling, to improve the appearance of slightly chipped, discolored, or crooked teeth. Patients love our tooth bonding services because it is less expensive than other cosmetic options, though still provides you with a smile makeover.
Tooth Bonding Process at our Office
The first stage of the tooth bonding process is choosing your composite color. It is advised that you choose a color that matches your natural tooth color. A bonding agent will be used to adhere the bonding composite to your tooth. Your dentist will manipulate and mold the composite to make it appear as if it is part of your natural tooth.
Then, we will cure the material with a UV light. If you are not perfectly satisfied with your bond afterwards do not worry. Our dentist is able to reshape the composite even after it has cured and hardened. The following are some common questions regarding our tooth bonding treatment.
How long does a tooth bonding appointment take?
Tooth bonding can be done in one appointment to our office. It is a fairly quick procedure, in which Dr. Bowersox will apply the resin to your tooth and shape it down so that it blends in seamlessly with your smile before firmly securing it using an ultraviolet light.
What is the difference between tooth bonding and a porcelain veneer?
Tooth bonding is a faster way to conceal minor blemishes, as porcelain veneers require our labs to create the veneer from scratch. However, tooth bonding breaks off and wears down faster than a porcelain veneer would. If this happens, a tooth can be re-bonded again usually within one visit to our office. Porcelain veneers completely cover your existing tooth, while tooth bonding is used to conceal blemishes with your natural tooth.
How does the bonding material stick to my tooth’s surface?
A small amount of your tooth surface may need to be removed to ensure that the bonding material sticks to your tooth. This is a minimally invasive procedure, and you should not feel any pain or discomfort. Your tooth surface is then etched and coated with the resin. The resin hardens to your tooth surface when the ultraviolet light is applied. With the proper oral hygiene maintenance, the bonding material should stick to your tooth for up to ten years.
How long does bonding teeth last?
Keeping your teeth and gums in good shape and protecting the bonded teeth will go a long way toward extending the life of your bonding. The lifespan of bonding materials is typically between three and ten years. After this period we can remove your bond and replace it with new material.
Does tooth bonding break easily?
Bonding material can be damaged. Bonding material is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel. Due to this, it is important to use caution when biting or chewing. Your dental bonding can break by something as minor as biting ice, or chewing on something that is particularly tough to bite.
Can bonding cause teeth to decay?
During bonding, decay is possible. It is still very important to maintain your oral health with any type of dental restorations in place. If you have any worries about potential tooth decay, call our office to schedule a consultation. We are happy to help with any issues you may be facing.