Cosmetic dental bonding is the next step beyond teeth whitening. For the front teeth, it can cover severe stains, fill in small cracks, and mask small chips and minor misalignment. Dr. Kohler applies a composite polymer compound to the teeth and sculpts it to create a natural effect. Besides giving you a beautiful smile, dental bondings make a stain-resistant protective covering for teeth.
The Dental Bonding Procedure
During treatment, a tooth-colored composite resin material is applied to teeth, a simple process lasting 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. Dr. Kohler will first select a shade of bonding material that most closely matches your tooth color. Next, he will etch and condition the tooth surface to securely hold the bonding material. He will then apply and mold the material to the desired shape and harden it with ultraviolet light. Once dry, Dr. Kohler will refine the material with further trimming, shaping, and polishing until it blends seamlessly with the enamel. The procedure typically requires no anesthesia.
Am I a Candidate?
Candidates for cosmetic dental bonding should be in good oral health. Any gum disease or decay must be treated before moving ahead with bonding. The treatment is best for patients wishing to enhance their front teeth by concealing:
- Chips, discoloration, or inconsistent shaping
- Gaps
- Slightly misaligned teeth
- Exposed tooth roots caused by receding gums