Are you happy with your smile when you look in the mirror? If the answer is “no,” you should know that there are various cosmetic solutions out there to help patients achieve pearly whites they are proud to show off. Cosmetic bonding is a popular option because it can be completed quickly and is one of the most affordable cosmetic solutions. However, you may be wondering how it affects the health of your teeth. Continue reading to learn more.
What Is Cosmetic Bonding?
Cosmetic bonding is a non-invasive procedure completed to correct minor flaws of the teeth. This can include anything from small chips, cracks, stains, gaps, and misshapen teeth. First, your dentist uses a shade guide to match the composite resin to the exact color of your teeth. Then, they will apply the composite resin to your affected teeth and use a bonding agent to make sure they stick. Next, they will sculp the material into the right shape. Lastly, a curing light is used to harden the material in place.
Does Cosmetic Bonding Ruin Your Teeth?
No, cosmetic bonding does not cause any damage to your teeth. This treatment is not permanent, so after a number of years, the material can fade or chip, but it will not affect the teeth themselves. At this point, you can simply give your dentist a call to let them know what happened. Then, they can schedule you in to have the bonding retouched or replaced.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Bonding?
There are many benefits patients can experience from cosmetic bonding. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
- Conservative: Cosmetic bonding requires little to no removal of the enamel, unlike veneers or crowns.
- Affordable: Cosmetic bonding is one of the most cost-effective cosmetic dental treatments out there.
- Quick: The procedure can be completed in as few as 30 to 60 minutes.
- Painless: Cosmetic bonding is completely painless, so patients don’t even require a local anesthetic.
- Maintenance: You don’t need to do anything special to care for or maintain cosmetic bonding. Just keep up a good oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing twice, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash every day.
- Long-Lasting: With care, cosmetic bonding can last anywhere from a few years to a decade before it needs to be replaced.
Cosmetic bonding is great because it can correct imperfections in your smile with virtually no risk. If you aren’t happy with the appearance of your smile due to aesthetic flaws, let your dentist know. Cosmetic bonding could be the simple solution you’ve been looking for.
About the Author
Dr. David Thomas earned his dental doctorate from the University of Pittsburg before completing an AEGD Residency at the Maricopa Institute of Health Services Hospital in Phoenix. If you want to touch up your smile, he’d be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Burien, visit his website or call (206) 244-4622.
