Why is Dental Bonding Referred to as ‘Short-Term’ Procedure?
You may have heard of dental bonding, a cosmetic procedure done to correct a few dental imperfections. What you may not know is while bonding is an effective solution it is rarely used for restorative purposes and it does not last for long.
Compared to other dental procedures like veneers or crowns, dental bonding is the least expensive and durable. Dental professionals use it for short-term dental purposes. Before you can get the dental bonding near you, it is important to know what bonding is and when it is used.
How is Bonding Done?
Dental bonding is the attachment of dental adhesive. It comes in two forms; composite bonding and adhesive bonding. The composite dental bonding in Hamilton, ON, is done in one dental visit, and in most cases, the process may last for about 30 to 45 minutes. In contrast, adhesive bonding is mostly used as a ‘glue’ for other dental restorations like bridges, veneers, or crowns.
Direct dental bonding procedure involves the application of the resin material on the affected teeth. The procedure is fast and rarely requires any anesthesia unless the cracks are near the nerve or the is the presence of decay.
The process begins with an assessment where the dentist will check the teeth and gums before cleaning the teeth. Next, the dentist will use a rubber dam to isolate the teeth and keep them dry to prevent moisture leaks. Moisture can affect the bonding process.
Our dentist in Hamilton, ON will examine the color of the bonding material and choose one that closely matches your teeth.
A conditioning liquid is applied to the teeth to roughen the teeth and make it easy for the bonding material to bond to the teeth. A tooth-colored putty is applied, molded into the desired shape, and smoothened. The excess material is trimmed and teeth polished to match the rest of the teeth.
Why Is It a Short-Term Correction Treatment?
Composite bonding is not durable and long-lasting (lasts about two to five years). Your bonded teeth can crack, chip, and discolor and as such you are advised to avoid biting hard objects or using your teeth as tools.
Furthermore, the resin is not as strong, and that’s why bonding is reserved for front teeth which have a very low bite pressure.
When is Dental Bonding Used?
Because of its limitations, the dentist may recommend dental bonding to correct a minor dental problem such as:
- Minor cracks and chips
- Small spaces between the teeth
- Lengthen the teeth
- Change the shape of the teeth
- To protect your teeth exposed due to gum receding
- Discolored teeth
Take note, bonding can only be used to correct these problems if they affect the front teeth.
As mentioned, bonding can at times be used as adhesive or glue in other restorative procedures.
When Are Other Treatments Used?
If you have a badly cracked or chipped tooth, the dentist may recommend other treatments like veneers or crowns. These dental restorations are stronger and more durable than bonding. But, one thing to note is that for the veneers or crown to be fixed, the dentist will have to trim your enamel. The crowns require significant reshaping of the teeth compared to veneers.
The primary benefit of choosing to bond over veneers or crowns for minor corrections is that it is reversible. You can have the composite material removed and choose another treatment. That is not possible with crowns as the teeth will be trimmed or reshaped.
What Can You Do to Protect Your Bonded Teeth?
The bonding material is not strong and can chip. It is, therefore, important to avoid biting fingernails, chewing ice, and other hard objects. Also, limit taking staining foods like coffee, tea, or wine to keep the teeth bright. Once the bonding material discolors, you will have to get the teeth redone.
If you notice any chips or cracks on your bonded teeth, call the dentist for an assessment. These cracks can trap tiny food particles.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Jackson Square Dental Centre for a discussion on the best cosmetic treatment that is suitable for you.