Composite Bonding

Common benefits:

In this procedure, a composite resin material is applied to the tooth and then sculpted and shaped to cover damaged areas or to fill in gaps. This material comes in several shades so it can be matched to the natural color of your tooth. Bonding usually requires only one visit, so it is less time-consuming and less expensive than other tooth restoration methods

What will happen at the initial consultation?

During the consultation, your dentist will talk to you about the changes you would like to make in your appearance. He/she will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and its risks and limitations. Your dentist will begin with a complete medical history and an examination of your teeth and gums. He/she may also take before photos, and give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure. Take this opportunity to ask all the questions you have about the procedure. Learning everything you can about your options, risks and benefits is the key to making an informed decision.

How is bonding performed?

The dentist will prepare your tooth for treatment by roughening and shaping or contouring the surface. Next he/she will apply a conditioning solution and bonding agent that together act as a strong adhesive or glue, to ensure that the composite will adhere. Next he/she will apply the putty-like tooth colored composite material, sculpting it to correct the problem areas. Several layers of the composite material may be necessary in order to achieve the best results. To cure and harden the material, a high-intensity light or a chemical agent may be used. Finally, your dentist will smooth and polish your tooth to give it an even, natural contour.

How long does it take?

Except in complicated cases, bonding can be accomplished in one visit. The length of the visit will depend on the condition of your teeth and on how much repair work you are having done.

Where is the procedure performed?

This procedure is done in your dentists office.

How much pain is there?

The procedure is virtually pain-free, although you may experience some discomfort during the tooth-roughening phase.

What can I expect after the procedure?

For several weeks after the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity in the treated tooth, but this should diminish with time. To maintain the results achieved by this procedure, it is important to practice good oral hygiene.

Follow these steps to care for your teeth after bonding:

Keep your teeth clean by brushing and flossing regularly. Schedule regular professional cleanings by your dentist or dental hygienist. Use gentle toothpastes that are safe for bonded teeth. Ask your dentist for recommendations. Slice hard foods like apples and carrots before eating them. Avoid chewing on hard objects like fingernails, pencils, or paperclips.

In general, the best candidates for composite bonding:

Enjoy good oral health

Are in good physical health

Do not smoke

Want to improve their appearance

Are well informed in regard to the procedures outcome

Have realistic expectations

The above is only a partial list of the criteria that your dentist will consider in determining whether or not this procedure is appropriate for you. Be sure to ask your dentist if he / she considers you an ideal candidate for dental bonding.

Risks:

Since the mouth contains many kinds of bacteria and experiences many temperature and/or pressure changes everyday, all dental restorations contain some degree of risk. It is important to follow good oral hygiene and keep your teeth as clean as possible. In order to minimize these risks, it is important that you follow all of your dentists instructions, both before and after the procedure.

Costs:

Approximate fees for Dental Bonding can range from $150 to $300 depending on the difficulty of the case. This fee does not reflect what your actual cost may be.

Questions to ask your dentist:

Are the desired results I described realistic?

Is there an alternative treatment that I should consider as well?

How long will the procedure take and how many appointments will be necessary?

What kind of anesthesia is used, if any?

How much does it cost?

What is your experience in performing this procedure and do you enjoy doing it? (How long has he/she performed this procedure, and how many he/she has performed in the past year?)

What percentages of patients have had significant complications? (The clinician should disclose this information to you.)

Will you repeat or correct procedures if it does not meet agreed upon goals?

And if the procedure must be repeated / corrected, will I be charged again? (The clinician should provide you with his/her policy on this issue.)

May I see "before and after" photos of recent patients?The clinician should provide many photos of recent patients.

Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have it done? (Either on videotape or ask to view one in real life.)

What should I expect after the procedure, in terms of soreness, what to watch for, and any limitations?

Do you offer patient financing?