Cosmetic Dental Bonding – Los Angeles

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is popular type of dental treatment in which a natural-colored resin is applied to the teeth as a way of improving or restoring that person’s smile.

After the resin has been applied, a special ultraviolet light or laser is used to harden the substance and create a firm bond with the teeth. Bonding is becoming increasingly popular across America.

Is Dental Bonding Right For You?

At New Image Dental we use dental bonding to repair teeth. Resin can be used to fill in cavities in decayed teeth, or to cover chips and cracks.

It is an ideal alternative to traditional amalgam fillings, as it is less obvious and looks much better. Because a tooth colored resin is used in the process, it may also be used to make discolored teeth look better.

Dental bonding can also be used to change the shape of the teeth, if teeth are uneven or asymmetrical. Patients who have “stubby” teeth may also choose the procedure to make their teeth look longer.

The Procedure

Our dentist will want to carry out a consultation with you before you have the procedure. We will use a special resin shade guide to find a perfect color match for your teeth.

Most candidates will not be given anesthetic for this treatment, as it should be free from pain. Before the resin is applied, the surface of the tooth must be roughened up. A conditioning liquid is then applied to help the resin to adhere to the tooth. Once applied and molded, an ultraviolet light is used to harden the resin.

Once it has hardened enough, your dentist will be able to polish and shape it into the desired formation. The whole procedure should take around 30-60 minutes per tooth.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Bonding

This procedure is easier and less expensive than many other cosmetic processes. Bonding can also be done in just one visit, whereas veneers often require lab made, customized tooth coverings. Bonding also requires very little of the natural tooth enamel to be removed before the procedure begins, whereas veneers and crowns could involve the whole tooth being ground into a stump.

Dental bonding is suitable for most candidates who cannot have anesthetic.

On the other hand, bonding resin is not as good at resisting staining as crowns are. However, the effects can be reduced by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Bonding materials are also less long-lasting and are more susceptible to chipping and breaking than veneers, traditional fillings and dental crowns can be.