Tooth bonding provides both cosmetic and restorative uses in a dentist office. It’s a painless and economical solution for patients who want to correct things in their smile. Dr. Chris Goelz is a cosmetic dentist in Marshall, TX who offers dental bonding in our welcoming dentist office.
Tooth Bonding Treatment in Marshall, TX
Tooth bonding takes just one visit to our office, making it an ideal choice for many patients. Alternatives like porcelain veneers require multiple visits and changes to the tooth structure. Bonding material adheres best to a clean tooth, so we’ll ensure it’s clean and ready before moving forward. The dentist roughs up the tooth’s surface so the bonding material sticks. This is virtually painless, and a patient rarely needs a local anesthetic.
The dentist mixes bonding material to ensure that it matches the shade of the affected tooth. If you’re using bonding as a whitening solution, we match it to the shade of white you desire your smile to be. Once we achieve the correct shade, the dentist molds the bonding material into place, depending on how you use it.
When you’re satisfied with the result, we use a UV light to harden the bonding material. We seal the material and polish it to match the sheen of your natural teeth. You’re able to use your bonded tooth virtually immediately after your appointment.
What Tooth Bonding Can Treat
One of the reasons tooth bonding is popular is because it can treat almost any dental issue. Since it’s moldable and malleable, it’s an ideal solution to treat cracked or broken teeth. We mold the material to replace the portion of your tooth that’s broken off. If your tooth has a crack in it, bonding material can fill in the crack and give your tooth back a complete appearance.
Bonding material provides a more subtle solution to dental fillings than traditional amalgam ones. We remove the decayed parts of the tooth and mold the material to correct it. Since it matches the shade of the tooth, it blends right in instead of standing out as much as metal would. Not only does it improve looks, but the composite material helps with the function of your tooth, too.
Dental bonding corrects multiple cosmetic problems. Some discolored teeth don’t respond to traditional whitening techniques. Since we color-match the material, we can mold the bonding resin over the discolored tooth. We can use bonding material in cases where you have gaps between teeth or teeth that are misshapen or disfigured. Each bonding case is unique, and we mold the material precisely to give the appearance of a straight, even smile.
Bonding provides restorative uses. If you have teeth with weak enamel or if any of your tooth roots are exposed, bonding can help. It covers tooth roots and reduces sensitivity. Adding a layer of bonding material strengthens the structure of the tooth, restoring functionality as well.
The Benefits of Dental Bonding
Tooth bonding has many benefits in addition to being a versatile treatment option. Bonding is one of the least invasive cosmetic options available. It treats many things that porcelain veneers can while preserving more natural tooth structure. Because of this, even children are eligible for dental bonding treatment. It doesn’t permanently affect your smile and is reversible and removable if you change your mind.
Because of its simplicity, it’s also one of the more affordable dentistry options. Almost anyone is eligible for bonding treatment. Dental insurance will usually cover some or all of the procedure. It can be done extremely quickly in comparison to many procedures. Bonding a tooth takes about an hour in our dentist office, with no need for follow-up appointments. After you leave our office, you can use your bonded tooth immediately.
Caring for Bonded Teeth
While dental bonding can significantly enhance your smile, it’s essential to care for it properly to ensure its longevity and maintain its appearance. Here are some key tips for caring for dental bonding.
1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for preserving the integrity of dental bonding. Just like your natural teeth, bonded teeth need to be kept clean to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Here’s how to maintain good oral hygiene:
- Brush Twice Daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be gentle when brushing bonded teeth to avoid wearing down the bonding material.
- Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between your teeth, including areas where dental bonding is applied. This prevents decay and keeps your gums healthy.
- Rinse With Mouthwash: Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol, as they can weaken the bonding material over time.
2. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
The resin used in dental bonding is not as stain-resistant as natural tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to discoloration. To keep your bonded teeth looking their best, try to limit the consumption of foods and beverages that can stain, such as:
- Coffee and Tea: These popular drinks are known for staining teeth. If you do consume them, try to rinse your mouth with water afterward or use a straw to minimize contact with your bonded teeth.
- Red Wine: Another common culprit for tooth staining, red wine can quickly discolor dental bonding. Again, rinsing your mouth after drinking can help reduce staining.
- Dark-Colored Foods: Foods like berries, tomato sauce, and soy sauce can also stain dental bonding. Rinsing or brushing your teeth after eating these foods can help maintain the color of your bonding.
3. Be Mindful of What You Bite and Chew
While dental bonding is strong, it is not as durable as your natural teeth, and it can chip or break if not cared for properly. To protect your bonded teeth:
- Avoid Biting on Hard Objects: Refrain from chewing on hard objects such as ice, pens, or fingernails, as this can cause the bonding material to crack or chip.
- Cut Down on Sticky Foods: Sticky foods like chewing gum or caramel can pull on the bonding material, leading to potential damage.
- Use Caution With Tough Foods: Be cautious when eating hard or tough foods like nuts or hard candies, as biting down too forcefully can damage the bonding.
4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups are essential for monitoring the condition of your dental bonding and your overall oral health. During these visits, your dentist will check for any signs of wear, staining, or damage to the bonding and can perform touch-ups if necessary. Professional cleanings will also help remove any surface stains on the bonding, keeping your smile bright and beautiful.
5. Consider a Nightguard if You Grind Your Teeth
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), it’s essential to protect your dental bonding from excessive wear and tear. Talk to your dentist about getting a custom nightguard to wear while you sleep. This will help cushion your teeth and prevent damage to both your natural teeth and the bonded areas.
Transform Your Smile With Dental Bonding
Can dental bonding be the solution to your dental problems? Call our office to schedule an appointment.