Cosmetic Bonding
— Seattle, WA —
If you have performed a search for cosmetic bonding near me, chances are you have chipped, stained or discolored teeth and would like to improve your smile. Also called dental bonding, this cosmetic procedure can take care of those problems and give you a smile that you will be proud to show off.
What Is Cosmetic Bonding?
This common dental procedure involves applying a composite resin to your teeth that's tinted to match your enamel. Tooth bonding can help remedy various problems, including:
- Gaps between teeth
- Teeth with irregular shape
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Discoloration or decay
- Exposed roots from receding gums
How Does Cosmetic Bonding Work?
First, we roughen the tooth's surface, followed by an application of conditioning fluid that will help the resin adhere to your teeth. After smoothing, we’ll shine UVA light on the resin to cure and harden it. Finally, we will smooth and trim the resin to make it look and feel natural. This process takes about 30 to 60 minutes for each tooth, depending on how much work must be done.
Why Get Cosmetic Bonding?
Tooth bonding is one of the easiest and most cost-effective cosmetic dental procedures. You don’t have to wait for a lab to manufacture a covering for your tooth as with veneers or crowns. It also doesn’t require shaving down your tooth enamel. Dental bonding is ideal for incisors as these teeth are under the least amount of pressure when chewing and, thus, are less susceptible to damage.
The primary disadvantage of cosmetic bonding is the fact that it isn’t as strong as dental veneers or fillings, so it is more suitable for smaller repairs. For large chips, severe wear and decay, veneers or crowns may be a better option.
Where Is Cosmetic Bonding Performed?
We perform dental bonding completely in our Seattle, WA, office. Sometimes, the procedure can be done in one office visit if you're only getting one or a few teeth repaired.
Little to no preparation is required. If you haven’t had your teeth professionally cleaned in a while, we suggest you set an appointment before your bonding appointment. We will select a color that matches your teeth to prepare the bonding resin, a putty-like material that we mold into the desired shape. Generally, you won’t need anesthesia unless we need to drill and smooth your tooth or if the work area is near a nerve.
When Is It Time for More Cosmetic Bonding?
If you take good care of your teeth, dental bonding can last up to 10 years. Avoid chewing on ice, biting on pens and pencils, and other habits that can damage your teeth. Grinding your teeth can also wear off the resin. Note that caffeine can stain it as well. If your teeth become chipped, stained, or otherwise damaged, we can replace the affected areas.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Bonding?
If you’re dissatisfied with your smile and tired of hiding your teeth, dental bonding may be right for you. Stop in or call our Seattle, WA, office for a consultation.
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