If you are unhappy with chipped, gapped or poorly shaped teeth, and want a relatively inexpensive and quick solution to help you get an improved smile in just one dental visit, then tooth bonding may be right for you. Tooth bonding uses a plastic composite material to build up teeth that never developed or became damaged. When polished, the results can be highly aesthetic.
Dental bonding is a great treatment for some people, but not everyone. This page contains background information about the procedure. To learn from our Calgary cosmetic dentist whether you are a good candidate for tooth bonding, please call Aesthetic Dental Studio in Calgary, Alberta today at 403-543-4600.
What Is Tooth Bonding?
Dental bonding uses a plastic material with small amounts of ceramic included for increased hardness and strength. It is the same material used in one type of white fillings. It begins with a putty-like texture, but once it is applied and shaped onto your tooth, it can be cured using a special light that makes it harden. It can be custom-mixed before it is applied to get the best colour match.
What Tooth Bonding Treats
Dental bonding is a versatile tool for reshaping teeth. It can be used to fix teeth that are:
- Chipped
- Poorly shaped
- Small
- Gapped
It can be applied to several teeth at once, or used to treat just one tooth.
Patient Reviews
"Dr Gordon Chee and his staff super friendly, def recommend coming here!" - P.B.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding has a number of important advantages that make it a good treatment for many people looking to reshape their teeth, including that the process can be completed in a single visit and is relatively inexpensive. However, dental bonding also has some disadvantages.
Although colour matching and polishing can create a fairly aesthetic appearance, tooth bonding never quite achieves the same lustre as a ceramic material, such as tooth enamel. And tooth bonding tends to be a relatively short-lived restoration, lasting only a few years. For people wanting longer-lasting and more aesthetic restoration, porcelain veneers are recommended.
Tooth Bonding Procedure
Tooth bonding is a quick, non-invasive procedure that provides immediate results with little recovery time. Here's what you can expect during the process:
- Consultation: Your dentist will look closely at the tooth needing repair and decide if bonding is adequate for your dental needs.
- Preparation: Little to no tooth preparation is necessary. Anesthesia is rarely required unless bonding is used to fill a cavity.
- Color Matching: A composite resin material that perfectly matches the shade of your natural teeth is selected.
- Application: The tooth surface is roughened before a conditioning liquid is applied so the resin bonds to the tooth.
- Sculpting and Shaping: The dentist molds the composite resin to the desired shape, carefully sculpting it to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
- Curing: A special light is used to harden the material, bonding it securely to the tooth.
- Polishing: Once the resin is hardened, the dentist polishes it to create a smooth finish that mimics the shine of natural teeth.
Why Choose Dr. Chee for Tooth Bonding
With over 20 years of experience at Aesthetic Dental Studio in Calgary, Dr. Gordon Chee is known for his skill and attention to detail in cosmetic dentistry, including tooth bonding. His artistic eye and passion for dental photography allow him to create natural-looking, beautiful results for every patient.
Dr. Chee prioritizes patient comfort and customizes treatment plans to meet individual needs, ensuring a comfortable experience. His dedication to ongoing education and advanced techniques make him a top choice for patients seeking high-quality tooth-bonding solutions.
Dr. Chee's team at Aesthetic Dental Studio includes highly skilled professionals committed to providing top dental care and creating a welcoming environment for every patient. With a strong focus on patient education and support, the staff ensures a positive and seamless experience from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does tooth bonding last?
With proper care, tooth bonding can last 3-10 years, depending on oral habits.
Is dental bonding durable?
Yes, dental bonding is quite durable. However, it is not as strong as natural teeth or other cosmetic options like veneers or crowns.
Can I eat normally after tooth bonding?
Yes, but you should avoid biting hard objects like ice or pens, as the bonded material can chip.
How do I care for bonded teeth?
Maintain good oral hygiene, avoid biting hard objects, and reduce consumption of staining foods like coffee or wine.
Can tooth bonding be repaired if it chips?
Yes, if your bonding chips or breaks, your dentist can usually repair it quickly.
Can I get bonding on my front teeth?
Yes, tooth bonding is commonly used on front teeth to repair chips, close gaps, and enhance appearance.
Is tooth bonding reversible?
Yes, tooth bonding is reversible, as it typically doesn't require removal of the natural tooth structure.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Chee!
To learn more about tooth bonding, and to get personalized recommendations from Calgary cosmetic dentist Dr. Gordon Chee about what is the best treatment for you, please contact Aesthetic Dental Studio in Calgary, Alberta. Call 403-543-4600 or submit an online contact form to our office today!
