If you have damaged teeth, you can use a process called dental bonding to fix them. This is a quick, easy, and cheap way to repair your damaged teeth. Your family dentist can perform the procedure and reinvigorate your smile!

Who needs dental bonding?

Anyone suffering from minor cosmetic damage is a candidate, including people whose teeth are chipped, cracked, or misshapen. Minor decay and discoloration are fixable with it, as well.

If tooth damage is more severe and the tooth's structural integrity is an issue, then this is probably not a viable solution. If you are unsure whether this is an option for you, you should talk with your dentist about your concerns.

What are the pros and cons of the procedure?

The most obvious benefit is that the cosmetic damage to your teeth will be fixed. You will be able to smile with confidence without worrying about gaps or cracks. Another benefit is the ease of the procedure. It takes just one quick trip to the dentist! You also most likely do not need to undergo anesthesia; therefore, your judgment will not be impaired, and you can even drive yourself home afterward.

One issue is their integrity. They will eventually break and need to be replaced, and they are not likely to last more than ten years. However, you can take care of them with proper oral hygiene and not eat ice or hard foods. This will allow them to last longer.

How does the procedure work?

It is important to educate yourself on how the dental bonding procedure works. First, your dentist will determine the exact shade of your teeth so that the bonding resin matches them. Then, the dentist will prepare your teeth for the resin and mold the resin onto them in the desired shape. The resin will act as part of your teeth. Therefore, it can be used to reshape or cover your teeth and fill in gaps and cracks. After this, your dentist will use UV light to harden it. Lastly, they will polish the resin to remove imperfections and to make it match your teeth better.

How to care for your teeth afterward

For 48 hours after your appointment, it is a good idea to avoid coffee or other liquids that might stain them. It is also recommended to minimize coffee and smoking long-term, as they can also become stained over time. You should avoid chewing on ice and hard items or foods, as the bondings are not as durable as your natural teeth. This means you might have to try to break some habits, such as chewing on pencils or your fingernails. Regular dental care is just as important as before; you should brush your teeth and floss regularly to prevent bacterial build-up and plaque formation. You should continue with regular dental check-ups, as well. It is advisable to see a dentist for a cleaning every six months. If you follow these guidelines, your new dental appliances should last a long time!

Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistryinredmond.com or call Essence of Dentistry at (425) 885-0200 for an appointment in our Redmond office.