The Benefits of Cosmetic Dental Bonding

Improving the Appearance of Your Smile

Cosmetic dental bonding is a popular and effective treatment for improving the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or misshapen. It involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of the teeth and sculpting it into the desired shape.

The procedure begins with a thorough cleaning of the teeth to ensure that the bonding material adheres properly. The dentist will then choose a resin material that matches the color of the patient’s natural teeth. The resin material is applied in layers and cured with a special light to harden it.

Once the bonding material has hardened, the dentist will shape and polish it to match the natural contours of the teeth. The result is a seamless and natural-looking tooth that blends in with the surrounding teeth.

Cosmetic dental bonding offers several benefits, including:

1. Improved Appearance: Cosmetic dental bonding can improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or misshapen. It can also be used to close gaps between teeth, making them appear straighter and more uniform.
2. Quick and Painless: The bonding procedure is relatively quick and painless, and can usually be completed in a single visit to the dentist’s office.
3. Cost-Effective: Cosmetic dental bonding is a cost-effective alternative to more extensive cosmetic dental treatments, such as veneers or crowns.

It’s important to note that cosmetic dental bonding is not suitable for all dental issues. For example, it may not be effective for teeth that are severely misaligned or have extensive decay. In these cases, more extensive dental treatments may be necessary.

Dental Bonding – Porcelain or Resin?

A dentist has two options for dental bonding: porcelain and resin composite. Porcelain fillings are generally inlays or onlays. An onlay is similar to a porcelain veneer in that it covers a large portion of the tooth (including the cavity), whereas an inlay is a piece of porcelain that’s custom milled to fit inside the cavity and be secured with a dental adhesive. Porcelain fillings generally resist staining and are long-lasting, but it takes longer to order them and they’re generally more expensive than resin.

A resin filling is a type of epoxy that’s placed within the cavity and then hardened. The resin may harden naturally over time, or the dentist may use a special light to activate the hardening component of the resin. Resin looks like a natural tooth and can usually be applied the same day as the cavity is drilled and treated. Resin composite fillings can be stained, and they won’t last as long as porcelain fillings.

The filling option will be determined by you and your cosmetic dentist. While Dr. Aller will attempt to maintain a natural and healthy smile, she also needs to ensure that your fillings are appropriate for your teeth and will help to restore or maintain the function of your teeth.

Dr. Aller has been voted the best cosmetic dentist in Coral Gables four years in a row, and recently expanded her practice to Plantation. She uses dental bonding to help her patients fill their cavities and protect the look and use of their teeth. Call Miracle Smile today to book your appointment!