The author of the article
Boris Lipovetskiy, DMD, 31 years experience
In the United States alone, 1 in 4 adults has avoided smiling due to the condition of their mouth and teeth. Meanwhile, around the same percentage have felt embarrassed about their teeth at one point or another.
These figures are bleak. After all, everyone deserves to have dazzling white teeth and a confident smile. But for many, this may sound like a pipe dream, especially after thinking about all the hefty costs associated with dental procedures.
If you are one of them, do not worry. With dental bonding, you can finally turn that dream into a reality. Even better, you do not have to burn a hole in your pocket to achieve your much-coveted smile.
Understanding Dental Bonding
Dental bonding – also referred to as “teeth bonding” or “tooth bonding” – refers to a procedure in which a tooth-colored composite resin is applied directly to the teeth. This repairs the damage to the teeth (including minor chips or cracks) and helps restore your smile and confidence. In other words, it is done for both functional and cosmetic purposes.
Tooth bonding is often seen as a more affordable alternative to porcelain veneers and crowns. But aside from cost-effectiveness, it boasts several other benefits as well. For one, this procedure only involves minimal tooth alteration, which means that it is both reversible and relatively painless. Furthermore, it is fuss-free and, in most cases, a single office visit is enough to perform dental bonding to a tooth.
Are you wondering if tooth bonding is for you? Generally, this procedure is recommended for individuals with chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth. It can also be used to close unsightly gaps between the teeth, make small teeth appear longer, or change the shape of the teeth. In essence, it is perfect if you are looking to improve the appearance of your teeth and, consequently, your smile.
But as mentioned earlier, dental bonding is more than just a cosmetic procedure. Instead, it can promote the health of your teeth and gums as well. For instance, the resin can be used to fill cavities (the tiny holes on the surface of the teeth), helping reverse the damage caused by tooth decay. Furthermore, tooth bonding can also protect the portion of the tooth’s root that has been exposed due to receding gums. If left unaddressed, this can cause your teeth to become more susceptible to disease-causing bacteria and plaque.
However, it is important to know that tooth bonding is not for everyone. If you have severe tooth damage or decay, for example, it may not be for you. It is also better suited as a short-term correction of minor cosmetic problems. So, if you have large gaps between the teeth and other major issues, you may need a more intensive treatment approach. To know if you qualify for tooth bonding, we recommend talking to your dentist.
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When it comes to dental procedures, the costs are no doubt one of the most important considerations. You will be glad to know that tooth bonding is relatively inexpensive. In fact, it is one of the most affordable dental procedures out there, which is precisely why it has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years.
The exact cost of tooth bonding is variable and often depends on several factors, including:
- Where the clinic is located
- The condition of your teeth
- The extent of the procedure
- The expertise of your dentist
Just to give you an idea, dentists in Miami typically charge anywhere between $100 and $400 per tooth. Compare this to porcelain veneers, which can cost around $800 to $3000 per tooth. Given the large price differences between the two, it is hardly surprising that many patients are opting for dental bonding instead.
In any case, remember that these are just estimates. You will have to consult your dentist for more accurate pricing. Do not forget to check with your dental insurance provider as well. Some companies consider tooth bonding as a cosmetic procedure, which means that they will not cover the cost.
What to Expect When You Have Dental Bonding
Tooth bonding is a fairly undemanding procedure and does not require any special preparation on your part. It is also painless, and you probably will not need even anesthesia. However, anesthesia may be necessary for the following scenarios:
- The bonding will be used to fill a cavity or a decayed tooth
- The tooth needs to be drilled to alter its shape or appearance
- The chip or crack is near the nerve
Here is a quick summary of how a tooth bonding procedure will go:
- Your dentist will choose a composite resin color that closely matches the shade of your natural teeth.
- If necessary, your dentist will administer anesthesia.
- Your dentist will gently etch and roughen the surface of your tooth. After that, they will apply a conditioning liquid to it. This will make it easier for the bonding agent to adhere to the tooth.
- Once the preparations are done, your dentist will apply the resin over the liquid, molding the tooth as needed.
- Your dentist will harden the material with an ultraviolet light or laser.
- After the composite resin has hardened, your dentist will further mold and reshape your tooth.
Generally, the whole procedure will take around 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. You can go about with your normal routine afterward. In most cases, you will have to touch up or replace the bonding every 5 to 10 years.
Taking care of your bonded teeth is relatively easy. By and large, it all comes down to maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine. This will preserve your dental bonding, allowing you to enjoy an immaculate smile for years to come. Some care tips include:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Avoiding hard food
- Avoiding surface-staining drinks and substances (including coffee, tea, and nicotine) for the first few days after the procedure
- Refraining from biting your nails
- Having your teeth cleaned professionally every six months
If you feel any sharp edges around the bonded tooth or if your bite feels off, schedule a visit to your dentist right away.
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Dental Bonding to Restore Your Pearly Whites
Tooth bonding is everything you could ask for in a dental procedure. It is simple, effective, and painless. More importantly, it is affordable. There is no need to worry about forking out thousands and thousands of dollars to improve the appearance and condition of your teeth. After all, everyone deserves to have immaculate pearly whites that they can proudly flaunt.
For satisfying and long-lasting results, make sure to stick only to reputable dentists in Miami, FL. In an hour or even less, you can finally have that much-awaited transformation. Of course, as with any dental procedure, proper maintenance is key. This includes practicing good oral habits and going to the dentist regularly. This way, you will be able to enjoy your bonded teeth – and your dazzling smile – for a long time.