Chipped, Discolored Teeth? Bonding to the Rescue

Do you have a cracked, chipped, or discolored tooth? Dental bonding in Irvine and Montclair, CA is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can give you the confidence to flash your best smile.

What is tooth bonding?

Teeth bonding repairs dental damage and prevents further deterioration through the application of a tooth-colored composite resin onto one or more teeth. This treatment is popular among patients because it offers a less expensive yet effective solution when compared to dental crowns, veneers, and other smile restoration options.

What is the teeth bonding process like?

Unless you need a cavity filling, bonding is a quick in-and-out procedure that does not require anesthesia. However, if you fracture a tooth near your nerve, your dentist may recommend anesthesia or sedation dentistry to ensure you have a comfortable experience.

Here’s what you can expect during a dental bonding procedure:

• First, your dentist will choose a composite resin color that closely matches the color of your existing tooth. He or she will use a color chart similar to a paint swatch to help select a resin color that best resembles your teeth.
• Next, your dentist will prepare to bond the composite resin to your natural tooth. The process starts with your dentist creating a rough surface. An acid etching of the surface follows. Then an application of a bonding agent is applied to this treated textured surface.
• Your dentist will add the tooth-colored, putty-like resin to the area and then mold it to the desired shape, repairing the damage.
• A bright (usually blue) light or laser will harden the resin material.
• Once the material solidifies, your dentist will trim and shape it further, then polish it to complement the rest of your tooth’s surface.

Completing a dental bonding procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth depending on the extent of the damage.

Why get teeth bonding?

Tooth bonding is an ideal treatment if your tooth has a minor injury and is not decayed severely. If you lose one of your teeth or break one to the point of being unsalvageable, then your local dentist may suggest getting a dental implant instead. A dental implant is a prosthetic dental device that replaces a tooth and its root entirely with an implant and crown.

On that note, the mouth injuries or smile defects a tooth bonding procedure can address include:

• Repair a chipped or cracked tooth
• Repair a decayed tooth
• Restore balance to discolored teeth
• Close gaps and spaces between teeth
• Change the shape of teeth, including making them look longer
• Protect part of a tooth’s root if it is exposed due to gum recession

In addition, tooth bonding is a good option if you are happy with the color of your existing teeth. However, if you want to whiten your teeth, you need to do it before undergoing teeth bonding. As discussed, your dentist will choose a bond similar to the shade of your current teeth. So, if you whiten your teeth after bonding, then your natural enamel will appear lighter and brighter, but the bond’s color will not change. As a result, the color of your teeth will be uneven.

What are the risks of dental bonding?

There are no major risks associated with teeth bonding. If anything, keep in mind that the tooth-colored resin used in this procedure is not as strong as your natural teeth. If you are rough with your teeth, the material can chip away or detach from your real tooth. Chipping or any breakage, however, is less likely to occur if you get a crown instead.

Now, what does “rough with teeth” mean? If you have a bad habit of eating hard candy or ice chewing, biting your nails, or chewing on pencils, the hardened resin can chip or break. Also, teeth discoloration may develop if you smoke cigarettes or drink dark-colored beverages often since the material is not as stain-resistant as other dental restoration options in Southern California.

How do I prepare for tooth bonding?

There are no special or extensive preparations needed before a dental bonding appointment. You will only need to consult your local Irvine dentist or Montclair dentist to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure.

If you are looking for a good dentist near you, you can end your search today by entrusting your smile to our professionals here at Cunning Dental Group. Call us at (855) 328-6646 to schedule your consultation.

How do I take care of bonded teeth?

Taking the best possible care of your teeth can help prolong the outcome of your newly bonded tooth. Some oral care tips include:

• Brushing at least twice daily and flossing once a day
• Quitting bad-for-your-teeth habits, such as biting your nails, among others
• Avoiding tea, coffee, red wine, and tobacco products for the first two days after teeth bonding to avoid stains, and limiting your consumption of usage overall
• Wear a protective mouthguard if you grind your teeth or clench your jaw during sleep.
• Scheduling teeth cleaning appointments with your California dentist every six months

If you chip or fracture the bonding material or feel a rough or sharp edge after the procedure, contact your dental care provider right away.

Is teeth bonding right for you?

Even though teeth are strong and durable, accidents can happen, causing them to chip, break, or fracture. In fact, a 2018 study revealed that of the 1,962 patients evaluated, 66.1% of the participants had a minimum of one cracked molar and 46.2% of them had more than one cracked molar. Thankfully, a quick, simple, and cost-efficient dental fix for damaged teeth exists. In addition to a broken smile, if you have discoloration or a large space in between your teeth, bonding may solve those problems, too.

Are you ready to perfect your smile?

Get in touch with the team here at Cunning Dental Group to learn more about our cosmetic dentistry services and see which procedure can improve the aesthetic and function of your pearly whites. To book an appointment, dial (855) 328-6646 or fill out this online contact form today. Our pride is your smile.