Spaces, jagged edges, chips, cracks, and discoloration are common cosmetic flaws on teeth. While they may not pose a threat to the health of your teeth, you may feel self-conscious about your smile or your general appearance. Dental bonding is a service at R+R Dental in Hicksville in which Dr. Richer or Dr. Rivera apply a composite resin to the surface of your teeth.
This resin, which matches the color of your teeth, improves the appearance of your teeth and covers up any flaws. This dental treatment can protect your teeth, boost your confidence and make you happy to smile again.
How Do I Know if Dental Bonding is For Me?
The best way to determine if you would benefit from this unique dental treatment is to schedule an appointment with any of the dentists at R+R Dental. They will examine your teeth carefully and discuss some of your options.
Do you hate the gaps between your teeth or are worried about a crack or chip on a tooth? Maybe you have a decayed tooth or some exposed roots caused by a receding gum line. These common dental issues make you a good candidate.
A Closer Look at the Process Behind Dental Bonding
The bonding process can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes per tooth and is dependent on how much work is needed per tooth. Before the resin is applied to your tooth, your dentist may roughen up or etch the surface a bit and add a conditioning liquid; these important steps help the resin adhere to the tooth better.
After your dentist mixes up the resin to match the color of your natural teeth, the resin is applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape of your tooth. The resin fills in and covers any flaws, creating a smooth and flawless appearance.
A special light hardens and strengthens the resin, and your dentist will finish off the process by trimming, shaping, and polishing the teeth.
Is Dental Bonding Painful?
The bonding process is typically not painful. If the dental adhesive is used to fill a decayed tooth, if a chip on a tooth is close to a nerve, or if your dentist needs to use a drill, a local anesthetic may be used for your comfort.
If you’ve never had a local anesthetic, it feels like a small pinch and quickly numbs an area in your mouth. Our dental staff makes your comfort during any dental procedure a top priority.
What Can I Expect After the Procedure?
After your bonding procedure, you can resume your daily oral hygiene habits. Dental bonds typically last up to ten years before they need to be touched up, fixed, or replaced. Their longevity is highly dependent on you.
As you would with your natural teeth, always brush your bonded teeth at least twice a day. Don’t forget to floss daily, and consider using an antiseptic mouthwash. Regular check-ups and cleanings at R+R Dental will help to extend the life of your bonds, too.
The bonding material on your teeth is strong, but it’s not as strong as real teeth. It’s also vulnerable to chipping just like your natural teeth. To avoid chipping or cracking, ditch any habits like chewing ice, biting fingernails, or using your teeth to open things.
Bonded teeth are more at risk of staining than natural teeth so try to avoid things like coffee and tea shortly after the procedure. Your dentist will give your step-by-step aftercare instructions and tips for keeping your bonded teeth in good shape.
If you notice any sharp edges, cracks, or chips on your bonded tooth, call R+R Dental right away so it can be examined and fixed.
Why Choose R+R Dental for Dental Bonding?
Getting the surface of your teeth restored is a unique procedure. It protects your teeth and keeps them healthy while improving your overall appearance. The staff at R+R Dental understand that every patient’s dental needs are different and we want you to feel comfortable every step of the way, regardless of the procedure.
The dentists at R+R Dental have years of experience in general and cosmetic dentistry. Our patients have come to us with gaps, cracks, and chips in their teeth, as well has uneven or jagged teeth.
While healthy teeth are a number one priority, so are good looking teeth. We take pride in watching our patients become more confident and happy with the appearance of their teeth. There’s nothing quite like watching a patient smile for the first time after a dental procedure.
