top of page
Search
Dr. Snyder

What Is Dental Bonding?

Updated: Apr 3


couple cooking over fondu pot in kitchen

What Is Dental Bonding?

What is Dental Bonding? If you have imperfections or issues like slightly overlapping teeth, irregularly shaped teeth, chips or similar things, Dr. Snyder might suggest dental bonding.

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry technique that removes small amounts of tooth enamel (the outer covering of the tooth) in order to change the shape, length, or surface of one or more teeth. This procedure uses several different processes called tooth reshaping or restructuring as well as bonding.

The process begins with a set of X-rays to ensure that your teeth are healthy. Dr. Snyder will then mark your teeth where the changes are to be made. The areas are then sculpted to the desired shape.

There are several advantages to choosing this option for fixing imperfections and minor blemishes in your smile:

  • This is a relatively inexpensive way to improve the look of your teeth.

  • This procedure is generally painless as only the enamel is removed. No anesthesia and no discomfort.

  • Removing imperfections in teeth improves the health of your teeth, as it removes areas where plaque and tartar can build up.

  • It is possible to avoid expensive braces if this procedure is able to make your teeth a bit straighter and eliminate minor overlapping.

There are always disadvantages where there are advantages!

  • This process only provides minor, subtle changes. Larger issues will require more involved treatment.

  • There is a minimal risk of tooth damage. Whenever tooth enamel is removed there is a risk of teeth becoming sensitive. The removal of too much enamel can possibly cause tooth breakage.

Tooth bonding, tooth reshaping, and dental contouring are recommended for people who just need minor adjustments or repairs to improve the look and feel of their teeth. Do not expect this process to be able to help you repair decaying teeth, avoid the necessity of a root canal, or fix unhealthy gums.

Tooth bonding could be an inexpensive first step to creating a better-looking you for much less money than other options. Dental bonding is a dental procedure where a composite resin is used to fill a cavity or chip. The composite resin is colored to match your natural teeth so your smile looks natural. Dental bonding can also be used to close gaps between the teeth, or to cover stains or discoloration on your teeth.


What Is Dental Bonding Made Of?

Dental bonding is made of a tooth-colored composite resin. This composite resin is matched to your tooth color for the best results. The resin is shaped and molded to your tooth, and then cured with a special light.


Different Types Of Dental Bonding

  • Direct dental bonding Direct dental bonding is when the resin is directly bonded to the tooth. This is the most common type of dental bonding. Direct dental bonding is used on teeth that have minor defects or discoloration. The dentist matches the resin color to the tooth. Then, a conditioning liquid is applied so that the tooth is prepared for the bonding. Next, the dentist applies the resin to the tooth and shapes it to the desired shape. Finally, the resin is hardened with an ultraviolet light.

  • Indirect dental bonding Indirect bonding is a type of dental bonding where a composite resin is made into a putty-like consistency and then applied to the tooth. It is then sculpted and molded onto the tooth. Indirect resin bonding is often used to restore minor cosmetic damage, such as small cracks or gaps between teeth.

  • Dental amalgam bonding Dental bonding is a method used to repair teeth that have small chips, cracks, or discoloration. Dental bonding is a quick and easy procedure. The dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the tooth, shapes it, and hardens it. The resin is malleable and the dentist can add more or less resin as necessary. Dental amalgam bonding is a type of dental bonding that uses silver-colored fillings instead of tooth-colored resin. Silver fillings are metal fillings that are typically used to fill cavities. Dental amalgam bonding is used both for cosmetic and restorative purposes. Silver fillings can discolor teeth, but dental amalgam bonding is used cosmetically to improve the appearance of discolored teeth.


How long does dental bonding last?

Composite resin is a fairly hard and durable material; however, it is not as hard as your tooth’s natural enamel, nor is it as hard as dental porcelain. Consequently, the resin will wear down over time and need to be replaced. 3-5 years is a typical lifespan for bonded composite resin.


To find out more about the dental services offered by our dentist in Albuquerque NM, Dr. Snyder, call (505)-293-7611, schedule an online consultation or visit us at 4830 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, Ste. K, Albuquerque, NM, 87111.

0 views
bottom of page