Cosmetic Dental Procedures 101: What is Teeth Bonding
Having uneven teeth can be very noticeable, especially if you have to socialize and appear in public for your occupation. Thankfully, there's a range of solutions you can choose from, depending on your teeth's condition. One of the many dental procedures you can receive is teeth bonding. Like any cosmetic procedure, it's necessary to know what it does and its associated risks.
What does teeth bonding do?
Teeth bonding is a simple dental cosmetic procedure that can remedy defects in your teeth. It's for repairing cracked, discolored, or decaying teeth. Additionally, it can close small gaps in between teeth. Besides restoring your teeth to have a full smile, tooth bonding can also increase particular tooth sizes. If you don't want to go through an invasive procedure of aligning your teeth, teeth bonding is your best option. It generally takes around 30 minutes to an hour for every session. However, you won't have to go back to your dentist for follow-ups.
How does teeth bonding work?
Unlike most cosmetic dental procedures, tooth bonding is simpler since it doesn't require multiple visits to complete. The only exception is when your dentist will need to fill a cavity. Otherwise, it's the best option if you only need minor corrections.
For starters, your dentist will choose from a shade guide to see which composite resin color will match your natural teeth's shade. Next, they will roughen up your teeth's surface and apply a bonding agent on them. Afterward, they will apply the chosen composite resin on liquid, where they will mold and shape the tooth, then harden it on your teeth with ultraviolet light.
What's the risk of teeth bonding?
Since it's one of the simplest cosmetic dental procedures, it doesn't involve any major risks. In fact, you won't need anesthesia when undergoing this treatment. However, you may need to return to your dentist to patch-up damages to the composite resin on your teeth.
The material that your dentist applies on your teeth may be prone to chipping or breaking, depending on how rough you are with using it. Additionally, the resin isn't as stain-resistant as other materials like crowns or veneers. Keep this in mind if you'll want a short- or long-term solution for your teeth.
How do I care for my bonded teeth?
Although your teeth's appearance may look straight, the composite resin can be prone to damage as mentioned above. It's best to avoid habits like chewing on pencils, biting your fingernails, or chewing hard candy. Since the resin isn't as durable as veneers or crowns, you will need to be extra cautious about the food you eat and your preventative dental care habits.
Try to avoid drinking coffee, tea, wine, and other food that can cause staining. For these beverages, it's better to use a straw than drink straight from your glass. You will also need to be extra careful about your brushing and flossing to ensure that bacteria won't damage your bonded teeth. Scheduling regular dental cleaning is necessary to maintain its natural look, regardless if your teeth have damage or not.
Conclusion
A healthy smile isn't just about looking and feeling confident; it's also about keeping your mouth free from injuries and dental diseases. Having an aligned smile prevents you from dealing with cavity growth that can hide in uneven surfaces of your teeth. This is why cosmetic procedures give an overall improvement to your oral hygiene.
Finding a credible dental professional will prevent you from dealing with any unnecessary issues with your bonded teeth. You should seek a cosmetic dentist in Murfreesboro, TN if you want to receive proper care from experts in the field. Schedule an appointment with us today!