Dental bonding is a versatile and affordable treatment that can be used to address a wide range of cosmetic concerns. The results of bonding are natural-looking and long-lasting. However, there are some drawbacks to consider before undergoing treatment.
Cosmetic bonding is not as durable as other treatments, such as dental veneers, and it may require touch-ups or complete replacement every few years. If you need significant dental repairs, you need to explore all your treatment options before deciding on bonding.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a common cosmetic procedure in which the dentist applies a tooth-colored resin to the tooth’s surface and then hardens it with ultraviolet light. Bonding can improve a tooth’s appearance by changing its color, shape, or size. It can also repair cracked or chipped teeth, close small gaps between teeth, or make them look longer.
Bonding is done on a single visit and does not require anesthesia. It can last between 3 and 10 years before needing to be replaced. Bonding can be stained by tobacco, coffee, or tea and may need to be replaced sooner if you are unhappy with your smile.
Pros of Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a popular solution for restoring or improving a tooth with minor damage or blemishes. Pros of cosmetic bonding include:
- Bonding uses a tooth-colored resin that is bonded directly to the tooth’s surface, giving you a natural-looking smile.
- It is much less expensive than dental veneers and crowns.
- Dental bonding can be completed in just one office visit. The procedure takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the severity of the cosmetic flaw.
- Bonding is a less invasive alternative to dental procedures such as crowns or veneers. Minimal enamel is removed to place the bond, and the tooth typically requires little shaping.
- Patients typically do not need anesthesia, making it an excellent treatment option for people with dental phobias or a fear of needles.
Cons of Dental Bonding
While dental bonding is a popular choice for repairing minor damage to teeth, there are some potential cons, too:
- Bonding is not as strong as other options, such as veneers or crowns, and it can chip or crack over time.
- The bonded material is not as stain-resistant as natural teeth, so it may yellow over time, giving you a patchy smile. Bonding cannot be professionally whitened with bleaching products, so you’ll need to have the bond replaced.
- Bonding is also not suitable for every patient—it works best on minor repairs in areas that do not experience a lot of wear and tear.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Bonding?
Bonding is not as durable as other dental treatments, and it may be unsuitable for people who grind their teeth. Tooth grinding places pressure on the bond, which can cause it to chip, crack, or fall out.
If you play contact sports, you may need to invest in a custom mouthguard or consider a more long-lasting dental treatment.
Improve Your Smile at St John Smiles
A healthy smile is essential for overall well-being and self-confidence, and at St John Smiles, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve and maintain their ideal smiles.
We offer a full range of dental services, from preventive care to complex restorative treatments. Whether you are looking for teeth whitening or more extensive cosmetic surgery, we can create a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
If you’re ready to improve your smile, call us today at (219) 232-8956 and schedule a consultation.