Thanks to cosmetic dentistry, there isn’t a ‘smile issue’ that cannot be resolved. If you are not happy with your teeth and smile, your dentist may consider options like cosmetic bonding or dental veneers. Now comes the important question – What exactly is Cosmetic Bonding: What Issues Can It Solve? In this post, we offer a guide to cosmetic bonding, which is also called dental bonding.

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding basically involves using a resin material on the frontal part of the tooth using a special light, so as to improve appearance. Often used as an alternative to dental veneers, cosmetic bonding is not only effective but also affordable for most people. The first obvious step is to consult your dentist, who will decide if dental bonding is the right treatment option for you. Next, the dentist will select a resin color that matches the color of your teeth. Each tooth then must be etched on the surface, after which a special liquid is applied, which works like a glue. The resin is then applied on the tooth’s surface, and to make it bond to the tooth, a special kind of ultraviolet light which hardens the material.

While there is no preparation or anesthesia required, patients are usually advised to avoid any substance may cause staining, usually for a period of 48 hours. The whole process takes about 30 minutes to an hour for each tooth.

When to consider the procedure?

Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental bonding, so talk to your dentist first. However, in general, cosmetic bonding is usually used for repairing decayed teeth or the ones that have cracked or chipped. If your teeth have permanent stains or there are gaps in between, your dentist may consider this as an option. Cosmetic bonding is also used to alter and correct the length and shape of teeth.

Final word

There is no denying that dental bonding is one of the most cost-effective ways of correcting your smile. Unlike veneers, additional coverings for your teeth must not be manufactured in a laboratory. In case of crowns and veneers, a considerable part of the natural tooth enamel must be removed, but with dental bonding, that’s bare minimal. However, veneers might work better in some cases, because all bonding materials don’t always last as long.

Talk to your doctor if you have discolored tooth or need help with your smile.