|
Dental Bonding
(Composite Bonding)
|
 |
 |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
 Dental bonding on the anterior or front teeth is an excellent method for repairing minor imperfections such as chips and stains. It can also be used to fill gaps between the teeth called diastemas. Although no cosmetic dentistry procedure can take the place of good oral and periodontal hygiene, dental bonding can brighten your smile quickly and easily.
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
| |
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
| |
What are some of the most common benefits of dental bonding? |
|
In dental bonding, a composite resin material is applied to the tooth and then sculpted and shaped to cover damaged areas or to fill in gaps. This material comes in several shades so it can be matched to the natural color of your tooth. Bonding usually requires only one visit, so it is less time-consuming and less expensive than other tooth restoration methods
If you’re considering dental bonding, the following information will provide you with a good introduction to the procedure. For more detailed information about how this procedure will help you, we recommend that you consult a cosmetic dentist with experience in the dental bonding.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
What will happen at the initial consultation? |
|
During the consultation, your dentist will talk to you about the changes you would like to make in your appearance. He/she will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and its risks and limitations.
Your dentist will begin with a complete medical history and an examination of your teeth and gums. He/she may also take “before” photos, and give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
Take this opportunity to ask all the questions you have about the procedure. Learning everything you can about your options, risks and benefits is the key to making an informed decision. See Questions to ask your dentist below.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
How is dental bonding performed? |
|
The dentist will prepare your tooth for treatment by roughening and shaping or contouring the surface. Next he/she will apply a conditioning solution and bonding agent that together act as a strong adhesive or glue, to ensure that the composite will adhere. Next he/she will apply the putty-like tooth colored composite material, sculpting it to correct the problem areas. Several layers of the composite material may be necessary in order to achieve the best results. To cure and harden the material, a high-intensity light or a chemical agent may be used. Finally, your dentist will smooth and polish your tooth to give it an even, natural contour.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
How long does it take? |
|
Except in complicated cases, bonding can be accomplished in one visit. The length of the visit will depend on the condition of your teeth and on how much repair work you are having done.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Where is the procedure performed? |
|
This procedure is done in your dentist’s office.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
How much pain is there? |
|
The procedure is virtually pain-free, although you may experience some discomfort during the tooth-roughening phase.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
What can I expect after dental bonding? |
|
For several weeks after the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity in the treated tooth, but this should diminish with time.
To maintain the results achieved by this procedure, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. Follow these steps to care for your teeth after bonding:
- Keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing regularly.
- Schedule regular professional cleanings by your dentist or dental hygienist.
- Use gentle toothpastes that are safe for bonded teeth. Ask your dentist for recommendations.
- Slice hard foods like apples and carrots before eating them.
- Avoid chewing on hard objects like fingernails, pencils, or paperclips.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Ideal candidate: |
|
In general, the best candidates for composite bonding:
- Enjoy good oral health
- Are in good physical health
- Do not smoke
- Want to improve their appearance
- Are well informed in regard to the procedure’s outcome
- Have realistic expectations
The above is only a partial list of the criteria that your dentist will consider in determining whether or not this procedure is appropriate for you. Be sure to ask your dentist if he / she considers you an ideal candidate for dental bonding.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Other important information: |
|
Bonding is appropriate for correcting minor imperfections. If you have structural problems with a tooth or problems with multiple teeth, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers or another tooth restoration procedure.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Risks and Limitations: |
|
Since the mouth contains many kinds of bacteria and experiences many temperature and/or pressure changes everyday, all dental restorations contain some degree of risk. It is important to follow good oral hygiene and keep your teeth as clean as possible.
In order to minimize these risks, it is important that you follow all of your dentist’s instructions, both before and after the procedure.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Dental Bonding Costs: |
|
Approximate fees for Dental Bonding can range from $300 to $600 depending on the difficulty of the case. This fee does not reflect what your actual cost may be.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Choosing a dentist: |
|
It is very important that you select a dentist adequately trained and experienced in this procedure. We strongly recommend that you consider choosing a cosmetic dentist. See our Locate a Specialist feature to find a doctor in your area, including detailed profile information for many of the listed doctors. Also read How to Select a Cosmetic Dentist for a more detailed discussion on choosing the right dentist.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Questions to ask your dentist: |
|
- Are the desired results I described realistic?
- Is there an alternative treatment that I should consider as well?
- How long will the procedure take and how many appointments will be necessary?
- What kind of anesthesia is used, if any?
- How much does it cost?
- What is your experience in performing this procedure and do you enjoy doing it?
(How long has he/she performed this procedure, and how many he/she has performed in the past year?)
- What percentages of patients have had significant complications?
(The clinician should disclose this information to you.)
- Will you repeat or correct procedures if it does not meet agreed upon goals? And if the procedure must be repeated / corrected, will I be charged again?
(The clinician should provide you with his/her policy on this issue.)
- May I see "before and after" photos of recent patients?
The clinician should provide many photos of recent patients.
- Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have it done? (Either on videotape or ask to view one in real life.)
- What should I expect after the procedure, in terms of soreness, what to watch for, and any limitations?
- Do you offer patient financing?
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Be sure to: |
|
- Tell your dentist about any allergies you have (to foods, drugs, environmental elements)
- Tell your dentist about all medications you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription)
- Carefully follow any instructions your dentist gives you.
The information on this web site is only intended as an introduction to this procedure and should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor as a guarantee of the result. The best method of determining your options is to consult qualified clinicians who are able to answer specific questions related to your situation.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
How do I finance this procedure? |
|
Did you know that 29% of all Americans have considered having an elective procedure? Of those, 60% would schedule a procedure immediately if financing was available. With iEnchance's patient financing options, money no longer has to be the barrier between you and your new image. By filling out our on-line application you can qualify for a loan in as little as 30 seconds.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
Related Dental Bonding Articles |
|
Please review the following articles for more information on this procedure.
| |
|
| Go to TOP |
| |
|
Home |
Our Community |
Newsroom
Locate a Specialist |
All Doctors |
Photo Gallery |
Procedures |
Doctor's Lounge
Extreme Makeover |
The Swan |
Dr. 90210 |
About Us |
Disclaimer
Business Development |
Contact Us |
Site Map
Find a
plastic surgeon,
cosmetic surgeon,
dermatologist,
vision specialist,
cosmetic dentist or other
specialist.
|
|
|
At iEnhance, find information on top plastic surgery procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction, facelift, tummy tuck, BOTOX ® Cosmetic, eyelid surgery, thermage, rhinoplasty; as well as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Locate a plastic surgeon, cosmetic surgeon, cosmetic dentist, or specialist today!
|
Copyright©2000 - 2009 iEnhance.com All rights reserved.
|
|
