Dental Bonding

Bonding is an alternative to veneers, and can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored or misaligned, as well as closing spaces between teeth.

How does it work?
The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist. Once set, the resin is trimmed, smoothed and polished to a natural appearance.

Considerations

The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit, and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding may last three to five years before need of repair. Bonding is most useful as a filling material for decayed teeth, and for closing spaces between teeth. Bonding does not offer as good a cosmetic result when compared to porcelain veneers, in most cases.

Bonding Photo Gallery

Problem:  Large space between front teeth.
Solution:  Bonding to decrease the size of the space as desired by the patient.