Cosmetic Dentistry of Murfreesboro

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Everything You Need to Know About Teeth Bonding

Teeth bonding is a simple cosmetic dental procedure that does not need anesthesia unless you need to fill your cavities. Read on to find out all you need to know about it. 

What Is Teeth Bonding and How Does It Work

Teeth bonding is a dental procedure where a composite resin material is installed and fixed into place using a special light that allows it to bond to your tooth.

If you have discolored, chipped, or cracked teeth, this cosmetic procedure can restore your smile in no time.

It is also a cost-effective way of fixing your teeth without you spending a lot of money on other dental procedures, such as installing crowns and veneers. 

Here are the steps that your dentist will do during the procedure:

  1. Your dentist will compare your original teeth to a shade guide to choose the right resin color.

  2. Then your dentist will make the surface of your tooth rough and then apply a special liquid to act as a bonding agent.

  3. Finally a composite resin is applied to your tooth,  and molded into the tooth cavity. Then your dentist will harden the area using ultraviolet light.

Why You Need Teeth Bonding

Teeth bonding is a good alternative for amalgam fillings. In addition, it is a great option for:

  • Discolored teeth

  • Gaps between your teeth

  • Cracked or chipped teeth

  • Decaying teeth

  • Exposed teeth’s roots as your gums recede

  • Improving the shape of your teeth 

Pros and Cons of Teeth Bonding

To help you decide whether to proceed with teeth bonding or not, here are the main advantages and disadvantages of this cosmetic dental procedure.

Advantages

This procedure will most likely cost you less compared to other dental procedures and can be done in one visit to your dentist. Now, bonding can be easily done one time unless you have a lot of teeth that need to undergo this procedure. This is also a simple procedure, which means that anesthesia is unnecessary. Lastly, a small fraction of the tooth enamel is removed, unlike when you proceed with having crowns or veneers.

Disadvantages

Just like your normal teeth, the resin used for teeth bonding is not resistant to staining. It’s also not durable compared with fillings, veneers, or crowns. Lastly, the bonding agent and resin materials may suddenly come off from your tooth without you even knowing it.

Good Oral Hygiene Practices for Your Bonded Tooth

Since the materials used for bonding can easily come off or even chip, it’s important to take the necessary care for you to avoid this from happening. When you eat hard food, bite your fingernails, or even consume ice, then your bonded teeth may suddenly tear apart. If this happens, you need to call your dentist immediately to remedy your problem.

Here are some of the good oral hygiene practices that you should regularly do to take care of your bonded teeth.

  • Brush your teeth regularly or at least twice a day.

  • Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash every day.

  • Floss your teeth once or twice a day.

  • Do regular cleanings and checkups with your dentist.

How Long Does a Bonded Tooth Last

The lifecycle of your newly bonded tooth depends on your good oral hygiene practices and how much bonding was put into your teeth.

As mentioned before, taking care of your bonded tooth needs proper oral habits. So if you bite hard or you consume drinks such as coffee or tea, then it may break off easily or may stain more quickly.

How Much Does Tooth Bonding Cost

The costs for teeth bonding differ from location to location. But usually, in the US, you may spend about $100 to $400 for each affected tooth. To clarify this information, you may check with your local dentist as to how much you would spend and will the dentist accept your dental insurance.

Conclusion

Teeth bonding is the least expensive solution to colored and chipped teeth. If you have already decided to go for teeth bonding, contact your local dentist so you can schedule an appointment and start having that confident smile again.

Cosmetic Dentistry of Murfreesboro is founded by Dr. Greg Nicholson, a dentist in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, who has been brightening the smiles of people for over 25 years now. Book an appointment with us today so we can start discussing your options and make the necessary recommendations for your tooth repair.