Let’s Bond: Answers To Your Questions About Dental Bonding

What do you believe makes a person look approachable and friendly? Many people would answer, “A smile!” If you are less than thrilled with the condition of your own smile ‐ but aren’t ready to consider drastic cosmetic procedures ‐ you may be interested in dental bonding!

What does dental bonding involve?

Bonding involves applying a tooth‐colored resin material to teeth to fix chips, cracks, or other minor imperfections. The surface of the tooth is prepared and the resin material is applied, shaped, and smoothed to the ideal shape. An ultraviolet light hardens the material and then, with a little polishing and additional shaping, the procedure is completed!

Dr. Lodding will use a composite resin that matches the color of your teeth. For this reason, you may choose to have your smile whitened prior to completing your bonding treatment. Whitening and bonding are two inexpensive, quick, and easy treatments that can go hand‐in‐hand to dramatically improve the appearance of your smile!

Am I a candidate for bonding?

Bonding is a relatively conservative cosmetic treatment that can be a solution for the following issues:
• chipped or cracked teeth
• worn‐down or short teeth
• visibly decayed teeth
• teeth with gaps or spaces
• misshapen teeth

Bonding is a great option for Elgin dentist patients who are considering cosmetic smile improvements but aren’t quite ready to commit to the tooth preparation or cost involved with porcelain veneers. Dr. Lodding will complete a thorough consultation with you to discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and costs involved.

Is bonding painful?

Bonding is typically painless and usually does not require anesthetic (unless it’s being performed to fill a cavity).

How many visits will bonding take?

Unlike veneers and crowns, which need to be crafted by a dental lab and require multiple visits, bonding can be completed in one office visit!

How long will bonding last?

Depending on the location of your bonded teeth and how well you care for your teeth, bonding can typically last for three to 10 years. Although bonding resin material is strong, it is not as long‐lasting as other restorative procedures, such as veneers or crowns.

While bonded teeth do not require specific care, it is vital that you maintain optimal oral health with consistent brushing, daily flossing, and regular hygiene visits here at Smile For Life Dental.

Additionally, it’s best to avoid biting fingernails, chewing ice, or using your teeth to open or tear items.

Interested in learning more about how you can conveniently improve your smile? Call us today at (847)-697-1111 to schedule a free consultation!