Do you have some imperfections about your teeth that bother you but don’t want to have to undergo a costly, complicated dental procedure to improve them? Cosmetic dental bonding may be just the solution to get your perfect smile! This treatment is a cost-effective and versatile option that can significantly improve a range of dental issues. Your dentist in Burien is here to tell you what cosmetic dental bonding is and four common issues it can address.
What is Cosmetic Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a simple tooth restoration treatment that can be completed in as little as one hour. During the procedure, your dentist applies a composite resin to the flawed tooth (or teeth) and sculpts it perfectly to cover the imperfection. After it’s hardened with a curing light, your tooth is now flawless! The results can easily last up to 10 years with proper dental care. Since the material is color-matched to the surrounding teeth, you will have a natural-looking smile.
What Dental Flaws Can Cosmetic Bonding Fix?
Dental bonding can fix a range of minor to moderate aesthetic issues, including:
#1. Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Your dentist can apply composite resin to the chipped or cracked area and smooth it out, restoring the tooth’s natural appearance. Be mindful that only small to medium chips can be corrected with dental bonding – anything larger may require veneers or dental crowns.
#2. Gaps In Your Smile
Do you have small but noticeable gaps between your teeth? Your dentist can apply resin to the insides of the teeth and sculpt it to any shape or size to give you an ideal smile and “close the gap”.
#3. Tooth Discoloration
Unfortunately, staining and discoloration are inevitable as the years go by. In some cases, teeth whitening may not eliminate these stains – but dental bonding can! The composite resin can disguise severe discoloration and give your pearly whites a more uniform appearance.
#4. Dental Decay
Long ago, dentists would use metal materials to repair cavities. Fortunately, the days of unsightly dental work are in the past. Thanks to dental bonding, your dentist can fill the parts of your tooth that have been eaten away by decay with composite resin. It’s a natural-looking quick fix!
Tips for Maintaining a Bonded Tooth
While dental bonding is not a permanent solution to your cosmetic issues, it can restore your smile for many years with proper care. These tips will help you maintain your results:
- Avoid biting down on hard items (i.e., plastic, nutshells, ice)
- Wear a mouthguard if you grind or clench your teeth at night
- Regularly see your dentist for cleanings and exams
- Maintain a good oral hygiene routine (brush twice a day and floss daily)
- Minimize your intake of dark-colored beverages, like coffee and red wine, to prevent staining
Are you ready to enhance your smile? Talk to your dentist about cosmetic dental bonding; your flawless pearly whites are one appointment away!
About the Author
Dr. Vincent Lam and his team at Seahurst Smiles of Burien are eager to help you achieve your smile goals. With nearly two decades of experience, he provides a full range of dental services, including cosmetic treatments like dental bonding. His 5-star rating on Google shows how caring for your oral health with compassion, personalized plans, and advanced technology is a winning combination! To schedule an appointment, contact him through his website or call (206) 242-4477.