Composite Bonding
Composite resin is a material made of plastic and glass particles. It can be color-matched to the existing shade of your tooth, and shaped to mimic the texture of natural enamel. Bonding is the application of composite resin to repair a decayed, chipped, cracked, or discolored tooth. At Bagley Dental, we recommend composite bonding to patients that do not want to go through the process of receiving porcelain veneers. Unlike veneers, composite bonding can be completed in a single visit.
Uses for Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is an option that can be used to:
| • |
Repair teeth with minor to moderate decay
|
| • |
Repair chipped or fractured teeth
|
| • |
Eliminate the spaces (diastemas) in between teeth
|
| • |
Change the shape of a tooth
|
| • |
Protect a portion of the root after gum recession
|
| • |
Make a tooth look longer
|
| • |
Improve the shade of a discolored tooth |
Resin composite is an excellent alternative to amalgam fillings if cosmetics are a concern. Bonding is also one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to improve cosmetics.
Composite Bonding Procedure
There is no preparation needed for composite bonding. In some cases, even local anesthetic is not a necessary step, unless we are using composite resin to fill a decayed tooth.
The procedure is called bonding because of the composite resin bonds directly to the tooth. First, J. Andrew Bagley DDS or W. Ryan Bagley DDS will choose the appropriate resin composite, using a shade guide to match the color of your natural tooth. Next, we will etch the surface of the tooth to roughen it, usually with an acidic gel. The rougher surface aids in the bonding process. Then the composite resin, a putty-like substance, will be applied to the tooth. The material will be molded and smoothed until we achieve the proper shape. Once we have achieved the proper shape, we will use an ultraviolet curing light to harden the composite resin.
After the material is hard, we may need to trim further and shape it. We may ask you to bite down several times to ensure there are no sharp edges. Once we are satisfied, we will polish the resin composite to match the sheen of your natural tooth.
The entire procedure typically only takes about 30 minutes to an hour. If the procedure involves more than one tooth, we may need to schedule multiple appointments. In the days following the procedure, be sure to call us if you notice any abnormal feelings when you bite down. Be sure to avoid applying unnecessary strain to the bonded tooth. Poor habits like biting your fingernails or chewing on pens could cause a chip. Usually, it takes many years before a bonded tooth needs to be repaired.
Advantages of Composite Bonding
Composite bonding offers the following advantages over other cosmetic procedures:
| • |
Bonding is one of the least expensive procedures
|
| • |
Bonding can be completed in one appointment
|
| • |
Bonding involves little or no removal of healthy enamel
|
| • |
Bonding does not involve anesthetic unless we are filling a cavity
|
| • |
Bonding is a more conservative alternative to veneers and dental crowns |
Schedule a Consultation Now!
If you are interested in composite bonding, call (509) 547-1631, and schedule your consultation appointment now! |
