Tooth bonding is a simple cosmetic dental treatment that uses biocomposite material to cover imperfections. Dr. Keith Boenning and Dr. Nathan Dancykier offer dental bonding treatment in Towson, Maryland. They are professional prosthodontists who restore damaged and missing teeth. Dental bonding can address tooth stains and discoloration, fix cracked teeth chipped teeth, and minimize minor gaps between teeth. If you want to makeover your smile after receiving a tooth or gum restoration, or if you want to restore the color and shape of your teeth for a more balanced smile, try dental bonding.
Benefits of Tooth Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic treatment that can change the shape, color, and position of your teeth. We use a bonding material that can also be color-matched to the color of teeth for a natural look. Tooth bonding protects teeth from further damage and restores the dental structure for a more even bite. In addition, dental bonding treatment is a more economical treatment option than porcelain veneers or other cosmetic solutions. You can receive tooth bonding in just one visit to our dental office.
Dental Bonding Treatment
Before treatment, Dr. Boenning or Dr. Dancykier will review your dental history, personal budget, and oral health goals to determine if tooth bonding is right for you. To begin, we will prepare any teeth receiving treatment by removing a small amount of tooth enamel. This is done to ensure the bonding material properly adheres to the tooth. Then, a biocomposite material is shaped and sculpted onto the tooth into the desired shape, size, and color-matched for a natural look. Finally, we use a special light to ensure the bonding material is cured onto the teeth.
Dental Bonding vs. Dental Veneers
Many patients with damaged or discolored teeth like weigh all their options. Dental bonding and dental veneers are suitable solutions for these dental problems. But what is the difference between the two? Both will resemble natural teeth and blend in with the rest of your teeth. However, aside from that, they are very different.
Dental bonding is more affordable, and our dentists can complete the treatment during one dentist appointment. It is also not permanent, and your dentist will need to replace them sooner than dental veneers. The bonding material used is not stain-resistant and may darken over time. However, if you have minimal damage, such as a small chip or stain, bonding is an excellent fix.
Dental veneers, on the other hand, are more expensive and require several visits to complete. They are a permanent dental restoration since a dentist must alter your teeth to accommodate them. They are significantly more durable and can last up to 25 years if properly cared for. If you are looking for a long-last fix to your dental problems, dental veneers may be the way to go.
FAQs
How long does dental bonding last?
Tooth bonding typically lasts for three to seven years. High-grade composite and porcelain resin materials will last longer than their cheaper alternatives. You should avoid staining foods and drinks that stain teeth. Additionally, some types of bonding may require periodic touchups or replacements in order to maintain their look and feel.
Does bonding a tooth hurt?
Bonding a tooth generally does not hurt. The process involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the surface of the tooth and then shaping and hardening it with a special light. Some people may experience sensitivity to the cold during and after the bonding procedure, but this usually goes away. After the procedure, if discomfort concerns you, your dentist will likely recommend over-the-counter pain medications that you can take.
Can my dentist complete a tooth bonding procedure in a single visit?
Yes. Your dentist can complete a tooth bonding procedure in a single visit. A tooth bonding procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes to complete. The time will also depend on the number of teeth your dentist plans to bond and the complexity of the case. More complex cases may require additional visits.
Is tooth bonding permanent?
No. As durable as tooth bonding is, it is not a permanent solution. Your dentist may need to touch up and replace the work after a few years. Since dental bonding does not require enamel removal, a dentist can reverse it. The lifespan of bonding can depend on the location of the bonded tooth and your oral hygiene habits. Proper oral hygiene and avoiding biting on hard objects can help to extend the lifespan of tooth bonding.
Does teeth bonding look natural?
Yes, teeth bonding can look natural. A dentist with experience performing this procedure will be able to shape the material to fit naturally into the contours of your tooth without looking unnatural or artificial. The composite resin your dentist will use in this procedure closely resembles the color and shade of the natural dentin and enamel. This will make it virtually indistinguishable from the original tooth. Your dentist will also take measures such as etching or roughening the surfaces of the nearby teeth before bonding so that they blend together more naturally for a more realistic appearance.
Will my dental insurance cover tooth bonding?
It depends on the specifics of your insurance plan. Insurance will only cover damage due to injury or other circumstances. Tooth bonding usually occurs when a patient has experienced cosmetic issues such as discoloration, chips, or misshapen teeth. Dental insurance companies consider tooth bonding an elective procedure and do not provide coverage for it. However, some dental plans may include tooth bonding in their coverage if they determine you need the procedure for health reasons. It is best to check your policy’s details and contact your provider to find out what treatments they cover in your plan.
Request an Appointment
Are you looking for a quick, economical makeover for damaged or stained teeth? Try treatment with dental bonding in Towson, Maryland. Call 410.324.2294 or schedule a consultation with Dr. Boenning or Dr. Dancykier on our website. Do you have any more questions about tooth bonding or your other cosmetic and restorative options? Let us know at your next consultation. We will be happy to help.