Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a cosmetic and restorative procedure that uses a tooth-colored resin material to repair, reshape, or enhance the appearance of a tooth. It is a conservative treatment, meaning very little—or sometimes no—tooth structure needs to be removed, making it one of the simplest and most comfortable ways to improve your smile.

How does dental bonding work?

Bonding works by applying a pliable, composite resin to the surface of the tooth. The tooth is first lightly etched and treated with a conditioning agent to help the material adhere properly. The resin is then sculpted into the desired shape, whether you’re closing a small gap, repairing a chip, covering discoloration, or evening out the edges of a tooth. Once the shape is ideal, a special curing light is used to harden the material. The bonded area is then smoothed and polished so it blends naturally with the rest of the tooth.

Dental bonding offers immediate results, typically requires only one appointment, and is an affordable way to enhance your smile with minimal disruption to your natural tooth structure. It’s a great option for patients looking to make small but impactful improvements to the look and health of their teeth.

Considerations for Dental Bonding

The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit, and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before need of repair.