Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that is minimally invasive and affordable. Dr. Amin and Dr. Prathipati provide this treatment to their patients to repair minor tooth damage and enhance the appearance of their smiles. The procedure is quick and simple and your dentist can complete it in a single visit. Flower Mound Family Dentistry offers teeth bonding in Flower Mound, TX for patients seeking an aesthetically pleasing solution for their dental issues.
What is Teeth Bonding?
Dental bonding uses a composite resin that your dentist will mold directly onto the tooth’s surface. Your dentist will carefully shape the resin and polish it to match the surrounding teeth. Your newly designed tooth will blend in seamlessly with the natural dentition.
Dr. Amin and Dr. Prathipati typically use teeth bonding to repair chips, cracks, discoloration, or minor spacing issues. It can also change the shape or length of teeth, providing a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Who is a Candidate for Teeth Bonding?
Candidates for dental bonding include individuals with:
- Minor cosmetic dental imperfections, such as chips, cracks, or discoloration.
- Small gaps between teeth that they would like to close without orthodontic treatment.
- Teeth that are shorter than desired and wish to lengthen them for a more proportionate smile.
- A desire for a minimally invasive and reversible cosmetic dental procedure.
- Children who need dental treatment but do not qualify for permanent dental restorations.
Good oral health is essential for dental bonding. Patients with active gum disease, tooth decay, or severe bite issues may need to address these conditions before undergoing cosmetic bonding.
What Can I Expect from the Dental Bonding Procedure?
The dental bonding procedure is straightforward. Your dentist will be able to complete the treatment in a single visit unless compilations arise which is very rare. The procedure does not require anesthesia unless we are using it to fill a decayed tooth. Here’s what to expect:
- Shade Selection: Dr. Amin or Dr. Prathipati will select a composite resin color that closely matches the natural color of your teeth.
- Tooth Preparation: Then they will slightly roughen your tooth’s surface and apply a conditioning liquid to help the bonding material adhere.
- Application: Your cosmetic dentist will apply the resin, mold it into the proper shape, and smooth it down.
- Curing: We will use a curing light to harden the material quickly.
- Polishing: After hardening, they will shape and polish the bonded area to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.
The entire process can take 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, making it one of the fastest ways to improve your smile.
How Do I Care for My New Smile After Teeth Bonding?
Caring for your teeth after dental bonding is crucial to maintain the results. With proper care, dental bonding can last several years before needing a touch-up or replacement. However, it is important to point out that teeth bonding is not as long-lasting as other restorative procedures such as porcelain veneers or dental crowns.
Good oral hygiene is crucial to helping your teeth bonding treatment last. You need to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Regular dental visits are vital for monitoring the condition of bonded teeth, addressing any issues early, and keeping your oral hygiene in check.
For the first 48 hours after the procedure, avoid coffee, tea, tobacco, and other substances that can stain the resin. After that, simply limit the consumption of these substances.
Although bonded teeth are durable, avoid chewing on hard objects. This includes ice, pen caps, hard candy, etc. This can chip the bonding material. Teeth grinding and trauma to the mouth can also damage or chip the bonding material. Consider wearing a nightguard or a sports mouthguard.
What Are My Other Options?
If you are looking for a more permanent option to improve the appearance of your teeth, there are other cosmetic dentistry options. Each one is suited to the different needs and goals of the patient.
Porcelain Veneers: These are thin shells of porcelain that are custom-made to cover the front surface of teeth. Dental veneers are more durable and resistant to staining than dental bonding. They can also correct a wider range of cosmetic issues. Teeth veneers require more tooth preparation than bonding. To learn more about the porcelain veneer process, see Porcelain Veneers.
Dental Crown: Tooth crowns are cap-like dental restorations that cover the entire tooth to the gum line. We use them on teeth that are significantly damaged or decayed. They improve the appearance of the tooth and offer more strength and durability. To learn more about the benefits of a tooth crown, see Dental Crown.
Schedule a Consultation for Teeth Bonding in Flower Mound, TX
Book a consultation today with Dr. Amin or Dr. Prathipati to learn more about teeth bonding in Flower Mound, TX. You can reach our dentist office by calling 972-848-8745 or request an appointment online by filling out the form.