Bonding

Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied and hardened with a special light, which ultimately "bonds" the material to the tooth to restore or improve a person's smile. This application of tooth-colored filling material has been a dental technique for many years. Recent advances have increased the strength, durability, and longevity of these restorations.

Dental bonding is an option that can be considered:

• To repair decayed teeth (composite resins are used to fill cavities)
• To repair chipped or cracked teeth
• To improve the appearance of discolored teeth
• To close spaces between teeth
• To make teeth look longer
• To change the shape of teeth
• As a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings
• To protect a portion of the tooth's root that has been exposed when gums recede

An advantage of bonding is that it is a less expensive and is a conservative way to restore a tooth. The disadvantage is that it can discolor over time and is more prone to breakage than a veneer. Because of some of the limitations of bonding, some dentists view bonding as best suited for small cosmetic changes, for temporary correction of cosmetic defects, and for correction of teeth in areas of very low bite pressure (for example, front teeth).

Together you and Dr. Mawyer can assess your situation to determine what is best for your smile.