Bonding

What is tooth bonding?

Tooth bonding is the application of composite resin to the surface of the tooth to repair it. It’s a simple, inexpensive cosmetic dental procedure that is usually completed in a single visit. Tooth bonding is one of the easiest and least expensive cosmetic dental procedures. There are lots of dental issues that bonding can correct. However, tooth bonding is most often used to correct chipped or discolored teeth. Bonding can also be used to close the large spaces between teeth, change the shape of teeth or make teeth appear longer. In some cases, bonding is used in place of amalgam or metallic fillings to protect the exposed root of a tooth with receded gums.

How to Care for Bonded Teeth

How long bonding lasts depends on how much bonding you have done and your oral habits, so it’s important to give bonded teeth the same amount of care and attention as your natural teeth. Bonding material is prone to staining, so watch how often you consume substances that can stain, such as tea, coffee, cigarette smoke and wine. It’s especially important to avoid consuming staining foods for the first 48 hours after any composite procedure.

In the days after having the bonding placed, call your dentist if you notice sharp edges on the bonded teeth, or your teeth feel unusual when you bite down. Always call your dentist if the bonding chips or pieces fall off completely.

Tooth bonding is a simple and inexpensive way to repair chipped or discolored teeth and give you back the confidence you need to flash your pearly whites. Talk to your dentist to determine if tooth bonding is the right solution for you.

**This information was provided by Colgate. View the entire article here.**