Teeth bonding, also called dental bonding, is a popular and effective cosmetic dentistry treatment that our dentists use at Longview Family Dental. The procedure can restore the appearance and function of damaged, stained, or misaligned teeth. This non-invasive and affordable cosmetic treatment option has gained popularity over the years because it is readily available to enhance smiles with minimal intervention. Our team of dentists offers teeth bonding in Longview, TX, for patients who want effective and affordable cosmetic treatment.
What is Teeth Bonding?
Teeth bonding is a dental procedure in which a tooth-colored composite resin material is applied and bonded to the surface of your tooth. We carefully shape, contour, and polish the resin to match the natural tooth. This effectively conceals imperfections and enhances the overall appearance of your smile.
Teeth Bonding vs. Dental Veneers
Many people compare tooth bonding and dental veneers because they treat similar issues. However, unlike other cosmetic dentistry options, dental bonding does not require dental impressions or laboratory work. This makes it a quicker and more convenient solution than other treatments like dental veneers. While veneers can take several office visits, we can complete bonding treatment in one office visit.
Bonding is also a more affordable option than veneers. Tooth bonding often covers single teeth and uses different materials. While veneers last longer than bonding treatment, they are not irreversible. Veneers require more tooth preparation, which can permanently alter healthy teeth.
What Can Tooth Bonding Treat?
Teeth bonding is a versatile treatment that can address various dental issues like:
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Dental bonding can repair minor chips and cracks in your teeth. The treatment will help support your tooth structure. It will also prevent further damage to your tooth.
- Stained Teeth: If you have stained or discolored teeth, whether due to aging, smoking, coffee, or tea, we can treat you with teeth bonding. We color-match the material to your natural tooth shade and surrounding teeth. Bonding is best for one or more stained teeth and can help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile.
- Gaps between Teeth: Bonding can fill small gaps or spaces between your teeth to create a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile. We often recommend bonding for black triangles. Black triangles create a small space between the tooth and gums.
- Misshapen Teeth: Dental bonding can reshape or contour irregularly shaped teeth, for an even smile. We only recommend bonding if you do not need more extensive work on these teeth.
- Exposed Tooth Roots: Our dentist can use teeth bonding to cover and protect exposed tooth roots. This helps reduce sensitivity and enhance your comfort. Covering the tooth roots will also lower your risk of tooth and gum infection.
The Teeth Bonding Procedure in Longview, TX
Bonding treatment takes just one office visit. The steps to tooth bonding treatment at Longview Family Dental include:
Consultation
The process typically begins with a consultation with Dr. Christopher Goelz. At your appointment, he will assess the dental concerns you have with your teeth and determine if tooth bonding is the best solution. He may recommend pretreatments to ensure you are in good dental health. Our office can treat gum disease, tooth decay, and other concerns before cosmetic treatment.
Preparation
Once we determine you are a good candidate, we will begin treatment. Our dentist will clean and prepare the tooth. He will roughen its surface and apply a conditioning liquid. This will help the bonding material adhere better to the tooth. Anesthesia is not required unless we use dental bonding to fill a tooth cavity.
Application and Bonding
Then, our cosmetic dentist will apply the tooth-colored composite resin to the prepared tooth. He will carefully shape and mold the resin by hand to achieve the desired appearance. Our dentist will use a special light to harden the resin on the tooth’s surface. You may need multiple resin layers to create a strong and durable bond.
Finishing Touches
Our dentist will trim, shape, and polish the bonded resin so that it seamlessly matches the natural teeth. This step ensures a smooth and natural-looking result.
How Do I Care For My Bonded Teeth?
Proper care is essential to maintain the longevity and appearance of your bonded teeth. After teeth bonding treatment in our Longview, TX office, we recommend:
- Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. While harmful bacteria will not affect your bonding material, it can affect the natural tooth and your gum tissue.
- Avoid Staining Agents: Limit coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, as they can stain the bonding material over time. If you drink beverages that stain daily, like coffee or tea, try to use a straw. You can also drink water with other drinks to help rinse away tannins and other leftover debris from the mouth.
- Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. At these visits, we will examine your bonded teeth and provide repairs if needed. We will also thoroughly clean your teeth, gums, and bonded teeth.
- Avoid Bad Habits: Do not bite on hard objects like ice, pens, or fingernails. Also, do not use your teeth as tools to open objects. The pressure on your teeth can chip or break the bonded material.
- Wear a Protective Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night, consider a nightguard. This will protect the bonded teeth from excessive wear and damage. Also, if you play contact sports like hockey, soccer, or basketball, you must wear a sports mouthguard.
Get Teeth Bonding
Do you just need to fix a problem tooth? Dental bonding is a simple, effective, and aesthetically pleasing solution for dental imperfections. Book your consultation today with Dr. Christopher Goelz to learn more about teeth bonding in Longview, TX.
Call our dentist office at 903-662-7811. You can also schedule an appointment online by filling out the form. Let us know if you have questions about treatment. We will be glad to help you at your next visit.