Cosmetic Dental Bonding: A Simple Solution for Damaged Enamel

Dental bonding is a procedure that can correct chips and other defects in your tooth enamel. After your tooth is prepared, a tooth-colored resin is applied to the damaged area. A special light cures or bonds the resin to the tooth. The result is a natural-looking repair that may last up to 10 years with care. Bonding is usually recommended for teeth with low bite pressure such as front teeth. Through cosmetic dental bonding, your dentist in South Bend can restore your smile and your confidence.

What Cosmetic Dental Bonding can do for You

Dental bonding can help improve the appearance of your teeth in the following ways:

• Restore chipped or cracked teeth
• Repair decayed teeth
• Lengthen short teeth
• Protect exposed tooth roots when gums recede
• Reshape teeth
• Improve the look of discolored teeth
• Close gaps between teeth

Pros and Cons of Bonding Teeth

Pros

• Bonding teeth does not require anesthesia
• Less tooth enamel is removed than with other procedures
• The procedure can usually be accomplished in one visit
• Bonding is easy and inexpensive compared to other restorative procedures

Cons

• Bonding materials are less durable and will not last as long as materials used to make veneers, fillings, and crowns
• Bonding materials may chip or break
• Repaired areas are less stain resistant than crowns

Caring for Your Bonded Teeth

To care for bonded teeth, practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing every night, and rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash every day. Don’t chew your fingernails or bite into ice or hard foods. Never use your teeth to open bottles. See your dentist in South Bend for regular checkups and professional cleanings.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.