Dental bonding is a conservative cosmetic dentistry procedure designed to correct tooth damage or perceived dental imperfections with natural-looking results. During the procedure, a color-matched composite resin is bonded to the surface of teeth to repair chips, cracks, discoloration, or gaps. Cosmetic bonding can resolve minor aesthetic concerns while preserving more natural tooth structure than porcelain veneers or dental crowns. Using versatile dental bonding techniques, cosmetic dentist John Cross, DDS can rejuvenate your smile with beautiful results.
- Cosmetic Bonding Benefits
- Cosmetic Bonding Procedure
- Cosmetic Bonding Results
- Cosmetic Bonding Recovery
- Cosmetic Bonding Cost
What Are the Benefits of Cosmetic Bonding?
Cosmetic bonding is one of the fastest ways to correct several aesthetic issues concerning the shape, color, and spacing of teeth. This cosmetic dentistry technique can be used to:
- Repair chipped and cracked teeth
- Conceal tooth stains and discoloration
- Minimize the appearance of gaps and spaces between teeth
- Modify tooth shape
Unlike porcelain veneers or dental crowns, cosmetic bonding can preserve most if not all of the natural tooth structure. The entire procedure can typically be completed within one visit, improving the beauty of your smile almost instantly. Finally, dental bonding is a more economical way to rejuvenate your smile compared to other cosmetic dentistry techniques.
How Is the Cosmetic Bonding Procedure Performed?
Before treatment with cosmetic bonding begins, Dr. Cross will clean and examine the affected tooth to determine if any preparation is required. Next, a bonding solution is applied to the tooth as a foundation for the composite resin. Layers of composite resin are built up upon the tooth, and then sculpted and textured to create a natural-looking appearance. The entire procedure can usually be completed within an hour and typically requires no anesthesia.
What Results Can I Expect from Cosmetic Bonding?
When performed by a qualified and experienced dentist like Dr. Cross, cosmetic bonding can produce natural-looking results where the treated tooth (or teeth) blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile. With proper care and maintenance, cosmetic bonding can last from five to ten years before a touch-up or replacement is necessary. To protect the health of your rejuvenated tooth, Dr. Cross recommends that you brush and floss as normal. Since composite resin can become stained just like teeth, daily oral hygiene can help extend the duration of your dental bonding work. You should also regularly attend check-up appointments for professional cleanings, and to ensure results remain in satisfactory condition.
What Does Recovery from Cosmetic Bonding Involve?
With the cosmetic bonding procedure, there is often little to no downtime required and many patients return to their normal routines right away. A small amount of tooth sensitivity is common, but that sensation typically subsides in a few days. Patients should avoid or reduce their intake of food and drinks that can easily stain their teeth, including coffee, wine, and berries, especially in the days following the procedure. Dr. Cross will provide additional aftercare instructions if necessary.
How Much Does Cosmetic Bonding Cost?
The cost of cosmetic bonding often varies from patient to patient, as each individual’s treatment plan is tailored to their own specific dental needs and goals. Factors that may contribute to the overall cost include:
- The number of teeth being treated
- Whether the procedure is included in a smile makeover
- The location of the treated tooth or teeth
Following the consultation process, a member of the OC Lifesmiles team will provide you with a detailed and customized quote. Additionally, we offer financing options through the reputable third-party lender, CareCredit®, which help make procedures more accessible and payments more manageable for qualified patients.
To learn more about cosmetic bonding, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Cross, please contact OC Lifesmiles today.
