Bonding. When you see that word, you may think of Miss Moneypenny and Q and some endless marathon of James Bond movies on TBS over a winter weekend.
But if you have some flaws with the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, you could think of bonding, dental bonding.
Dental bonding can be a good solution to certain dental problems. Dental bonding uses resin, a mix of tooth-colored plastic and glass, to cover or fill an assortment of dental problems. At Prosthodontics of New York, we offer to bond as an alternative to more expensive porcelain veneers.
What can bonding do for my teeth?
Bonding can solve many problems with your teeth, much like James Bond could solve the problems caused by Ernst Blofeld. It’s important to note first, however, that bonding is strictly cosmetic. If your teeth have problems such as decay or there are issues with your gums, those need to be addressed before any bonding can be done. Bonding is a cosmetic treatment, not a restoration.
Here are the cosmetic dental problems that can be fixed with bonding. Bonding can:
- Fill large cavities
- Restore teeth that have lost mass due to decay
- Brighten heavily discolored teeth
- Fill tooth cracks and chips
- Protect the tooth root when gums recede
- Fill gaps between the teeth
- Improve the symmetry of the teeth
- Hold veneers and crowns
Why bonding?
- Ease— Bonding is a simple procedure — there is no waiting for fabrication of veneers or a crown. Bonding is done in a single visit.
- Cost— Bonding can be an alternative to more expensive procedures such as veneers, crowns, or certain large precious metal fillings. Dr. Roberts and Dr. Sirota use bonding to address many of the same problems as can be treated by the other procedures mentioned above, but at a much lower cost.
- Painless— Since bonding involves placing the bonding material onto your teeth, there is no need for any anesthesia.
How is it done?
The first step is to apply an etching solution to the tooth or teeth to be bonded. This solution gently roughs the surface of the tooth to create a stronger bond between the tooth and the resin. Next, Drs. Roberts or Sirota apply the resin in layers. A layer is applied, and that layer is then cured with a special light, and then the next layer is applied. This is done until the final look is achieved. Once placed, the resin can be shaped, ground, and polished. The result is a beautiful smile, and it can all be done in just a single appointment.
Interested in bonding, without Miss Moneypenny? Call the team at Prosthodontics of New York, (212) 758-9690, to make an appointment.
