Not all damage to your teeth is severe. Sometimes, the damage consists of a minor chip, or it is cosmetic. Your tooth may be discolored, an improper length, or it may be spaced too far away from other teeth, A dental bond can fill out a chip in your tooth, hide a problem with the color, or it can lengthen your tooth or close the gap between your teeth. One of the biggest advantages of a dental bond is the cost. It is one of the least-expensive tooth restoration options. Another big advantage is that the bonding material can be shaded to match the rest of your tooth so that other people will not notice it.
Your dentist can place a bond on your tooth in one visit. Unless tooth decay needs to be removed, there are no other processes other than the application. Your dentist will select a color for, and then mix the resin used in the bond. After etching the surface of your tooth, the dentist will apply a conditioning liquid to help the bond adhere to the tooth’s surface. The dentist will then mold the resin into the right shape, and then harden it with an ultraviolet light. After the resin is cured, your dentist will trim and polish it.
If you take proper care of your bond, it should last for years. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and seeing your dentist for your routine appointments. The bond can still be stained, especially during the first 48 hours, so you should keep that in mind when you are eating and drinking. Your bond is strong but does not have the strength of your tooth enamel, and it can be chipped by hard foods, ice, and by chewing on things like pens and pencils.
If you have a tooth that could use some improvement, our dentist, Dr. Jonathan E. Quillian can give you an exam and a consultation to see if a bond is right for you. If you live in the San Antonio, Texas, area and would like to make an appointment at Culebra North Dental Care, call 210-761-5452 today and let’s spruce up your smile.