Minimize Gap in Front Teeth with Dental Bonding

Minimize Gap in Front Teeth with Dental Bonding

May 01, 2022

Some gaps in your tooth are small and not easily spotted, while others are larger and easily noticeable. If you are uncomfortable with the space between your front teeth, dental bonding can be the best way of minimizing it.

Dental bonding is a dental service that involves the application of a tooth-colored resin on the affected tooth. Many patients prefer it over other alternatives like porcelain veneers ad braces. Here are some things you need to know about dental bonding before considering this treatment.

Why should Dental Bonding be Done?

Besides closing gaps, dental bonding can be done for the following reasons:

  • To repair cracked or chipped teeth
  • To repair decayed teeth because resins are used to fill cavities
  • To remove stains from discolored teeth
  • To make your teeth look longer
  • To change the shape of your teeth
  • To safeguard a portion of your tooth’s root exposed when the gums recede
  • It is also used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings

How is Teeth Bonding done?

The dental bonding procedure in Garrettsville, OH,  is done in two simple steps. This includes:

Preparation

A little advanced preparation is needed for teeth bonding. Anesthesia is only necessary when the bonding fills the decayed tooth. Then, the tooth has to be drilled to change the shape or if the chip is near the nerve. Your dentist Hiram will then use a color shade guide to select the composite resin color which matches your tooth’s color.

The bonding process

During this process, the dentist will roughen the surface of your tooth by applying a conditioning gel. It helps the bonding material to stick to your tooth. The tooth-colored resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired form. After which, it is then hardened using a bright laser or light. When the material sets, your dentist will then trim, shape and polish to match the rest of your tooth’s surface.

The teeth bonding process takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete a tooth. So if a number of your teeth has to bond, it might take a while.

Because of some of the limitations that dental bonding has, some dentists see it best suited for small cosmetic dental changes or short-term correction of cosmetic problems. They are meant for correcting teeth in areas with very low bite pressure, like the front teeth. Before opting for one, talk with your dentist near you about the best cosmetic dental approach.

The Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding

One of the pros of dental bonding is that it is one of the least expensive and sexiest cosmetic dental procedures. It is also one of the dental procedures that can be done in a single visit, unlike veneers and crowns.

One limitation of dental crowns is that it does not resist stains, and crowns hence, can be easily stained

How are Bonded Teeth Maintained?

Since the bonding material can easily chip, it is best to avoid habits such as chewing opens, ice, biting fingernails, or suing your bonded teeth to open items. Instead, call or visit your dentist if you notice any sharp edges on your bonded tooth or if your teeth feel uncomfortable when you bite down.

Otherwise, bonded teeth do not need any special care. Follow the following oral hygiene practices:

  • Floss at least once a day
  • Brush your teeth after every meal
  • Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash at least once a day
  • Adhere to regular dental check-ups and cleanings

How long do bonded teeth last

The lifespan of your bonded teeth depends on your oral habits and how much bonding was done. Bonded teeth do not have the same strength as your natural teeth, and some bad habits can shorten their lifespan. For example, if you smoke or drink red wine or coffee beverages, the bonding material will stain more quickly and might need a replacement sooner.

If you tend to bite down hard, for example, you might break the bonding material, and this might guarantee a replacement. Typically, bonding material lasts up to ten years if taken care of properly.

If you are looking for a dentistry that offers dental bonding near you,  then Garrettsville Dental Group is the right place for you.