Cosmetic Bonding

Uses of Bonding

Bonding is a term used to describe a number of procedures that involve applying composite resins to the tooth. It can be used strictly for cosmetic purposes or to repair cracked and chipped teeth, or protect the teeth against decay. Regardless of its use, bonding can provide an attractive result. Listed below are some common uses of bonding.

Masking deep stains

Certain antibiotics given to children while their permanent teeth are developing can cause ugly dark staining deep inside the teeth. Binding can cover these stains.

Closing gaps and repairing chips and cracks

Composite resins are used to close small gaps between front teeth and to repair some chips and cracks. This procedure readily improves your appearance and can help protect damaged teeth.

Protecting exposed roots

Composite resins also are used to protect exposed tooth roots, which commonly result from gum recession. Because roots are composed mostly of dentin, a softer tissue than enamel, they are more susceptible to decay, wear and erosion. Composite resins (in combination with adhesive resins) are applied to the tooth roots to treat sensitivity to temperature extremes, which occurs when tooth roots are left exposed.

Restoring decayed teeth

Composite resins may be used to fill small cavities. Because composites are tooth-colored, they usually are preferred for front teeth. In fact, they are almost impossible to distinguish from the natural tooth.

Procedure

Binding often is completed in one visit and does not require drilling. The process involves preparing the tooth surface with an etching solution that allows the composite resins to adhere. To match your teeth, various color resins carefully are blended so the bonded tooth will look natural.