Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a widely used cosmetic dental procedure that doesn't require any tooth reduction. It's particularly favored by people who are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth and is generally used for minor corrections.

The term "bonding" refers to attaching or fixing something, and in this procedure, a composite filling material is bonded to the teeth to fix imperfections. It can be used to change tooth color, repair chips or cracks, close gaps between teeth, lengthen teeth, or smooth the tooth surface.

During the procedure, the patient is prepared, anesthesia is applied if needed, the tooth surface is prepped for the material, and the composite is applied in layers with a micro-brush and hardened with UV light. The result is the desired tooth appearance; the dentist's skill plays a major role in the outcome.

The advantages of bonding include completion in a single session, generally not requiring anesthesia, no tooth reduction, and lower cost. Its disadvantages include the risk of staining or the material chipping off if applied carelessly, and the fact that composite material is less durable than porcelain veneers.

When performed by a skilled dentist, bonding typically lasts about 7-10 years. Protecting the teeth from impacts and hard foods, and maintaining regular oral care, helps extend the durability of the results.