Dental Bonding

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is the process of applying a resin to the surface of a tooth in order to repair or improve the appearance of your teeth.

When is dental bonding used?

Dental bonding has a variety of uses. The dentists at Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates use dental bonding to:

• Repair decaying teeth or fill cavities
• Repair teeth that are cracked, chipped, or broken
• Cover discoloration to match the color of your other teeth
• Correct gaps between your teeth that are either aesthetically displeasing or catching food
• Lengthen or reshape teeth

Dental bonding can also be used to replace metal or amalgam fillings for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

How long does dental bonding last?

The composite resin used in dental bonding is not as strong as your natural teeth, which means it’s more likely to:

• Chip
• Break
• Stain

Dental bonding may need to be replaced after just a few years, or it can last 10 or more years depending on the nature of the composite filling, and it’s exposure to wear and tear.

Who is a good candidate for dental bonding?

Cosmetic dental bonding is largely painless and noninvasive, which means that almost anyone who has concerns that can be addressed by this treatment is a good candidate. The most important aspect your dentist considers when evaluating your eligibility is whether your expectations are in alignment with the probable results.

In some cases, patients may need to take antibiotics or have other procedures (like root canal therapy) performed before dental bonding can be completed.

What are my alternative options?

Alternatives to dental bonding vary based on your budget and treatment goals. Here are some common examples of alternatives:

• Whitening: whitening treatments or veneers
• Reshaping: veneers
• Repairing decay, chips, or cracks: dental crown, extraction of the tooth (not recommended in most cases)
• Closing gaps: orthodontics, veneers, or crowns

Your dentist always ensures that you understand all of your treatment options before making a decision and following through with treatment. 

To see if dental bonding can help improve your smile, call Charles M. Marks, DDS & Dental Associates, or book an appointment online today.