Dental Bonding

Repair a Chipped Tooth with Bonding

There are several different ways to repair and improve a smile. One effective method is a treatment referred to as dental filling or bonding. Dental bonding is an easy and simple option for minor  cosmetic dental repairs such as a chipped or discolored teeth. The procedure involves bonding tooth-colored resin to the tooth, to quickly and cost-effectively fix a smile in no time.

What Dental Issues Does it Help?

Bonding can be used in a variety of applications such as repairing tooth decay, chips or cracks in teeth. In addition to fixing those dental problems, it can also be used for the following issues:

• Improving the look of discolored teeth
• Reshaping teeth
• Protecting teeth roots if gums have receded
• Closing spaces and gaps in the teeth

What Does the Procedure Involve?

Almost no preparation is needed for dental bonding. In most cases, anesthesia is not used unless the resin is used to repair a decaying tooth. Your dentist will determine the right shade of composite resin to best match the rest of your teeth. The surface of the teeth will be slightly roughened, after which a conditioning liquid is placed atop the new surface.

The tooth-colored resin is applied, shaped and molded to fit the tooth. An ultraviolet light is used to further cure and harden the bonding material. Additional shaping to the bond is applied as needed, so that the tooth is identical to the surface of the surrounding teeth. The procedure takes 30-60 minutes per tooth and can be completed in a single visit.

Is Dental Tooth Bonding For You?

A consultation with your dentist can help you decide if dental bonding is the right choice for you. This procedure can be a great alternative to veneers or crowns, which must be produced in a lab to custom fit and mold to your teeth. Additionally, bonding requires little to no removal of teeth enamel.

It's important to note that dental bonding is not as durable as your real teeth. The bonding material is subject to damage when chewing on pens or ice, and is also more susceptible to stains than crowns. However, regular dentist visits and good oral hygiene habits will help to ensure that the material will last longer.

Maintain the Beauty of Your Smile

Strong oral hygiene and maintenance is the gateway to a great smile. Dr. Zabolian and his staff at Samaritan Dental Arts in Downtown Los Angeles, can evaluate and personalize the best cosmetic dentistry option for you. Schedule an appointment or call us at 213- 631-2087 today.