Dental Bonding in Dunn, NC
Dental bonding is a versatile treatment option that improves your smile and protects your teeth. It addresses various dental problems, including cosmetic imperfections and structural issues, making it suitable for many patient concerns.
Like our cars or cell phones, our teeth can suffer from wear and tear. Fortunately, bonding helps restore their strength and appearance. At J. Michael Williams, DDS, our skilled team is committed to helping you achieve the best results, ensuring you leave our office with a bright and healthy smile.
Dental Bonding Explained
Dental bonding is a versatile treatment option Dr. Williams and Dr. Byrd use for both restorative and cosmetic purposes. During the procedure, we apply a tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth. Whether you want to improve the appearance of your teeth or you need to repair damage, dental bonding offers a practical solution for enhancing your dental health and smile.
Dental bonding can:
- Repair chips and cracks
- Conceal discoloration
- Close gaps
- Reshape teeth
- Protect exposed tooth roots
- Fill cavities
Dental bonding is an ideal treatment option for minor dental issues, tackling cosmetic and functional concerns. However, it’s not the best option for severely decayed teeth. When decay is too advanced, we may recommend a dental crown instead. If the tooth is so damaged that it cannot be saved, we’ll remove it and replace it with a dental implant.
The Dental Bonding Process
The dental bonding process is straightforward and generally completed in a single visit. One of our doctors will choose a composite resin color using a shade guide to match your natural teeth. We will then roughen the tooth’s surface and apply a conditioning liquid to enhance the bonding material’s adhesion. Next, we apply and shape the putty-like resin to your tooth. A special UV light hardens the resin, securing it to your tooth.
Finally, we polish the hardened resin to match the sheen of your surrounding teeth. The entire procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth and requires minimal preparation. Local anesthesia is rarely needed unless the bonding is to repair a decayed tooth.
How To Care for Your Bonded Teeth
Caring for your bonded teeth involves several essential oral hygiene practices. Start by brushing regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and maintain the bonding material. You should also floss daily to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth. Doing so helps prevent decay and maintain gum health. Using an antiseptic mouthwash once or twice a day can also help minimize plaque and bacteria in your mouth.
To protect the bonding material, avoid hard or crunchy foods such as nuts and hard candies. Additionally, refrain from using your teeth to open packages or bite your nails, as these habits can damage the bonding and compromise the results of your treatment.
Discover Your Best Smile at J. Michael Williams, DDS
At J. Michael Williams, DDS, we use dental bonding to address a variety of cosmetic concerns, from repairing chips and covering discoloration to closing gaps and reshaping your teeth. Our goal is to help you achieve a smile that looks great and functions properly. With every treatment we perform, we focus on making sure you’re comfortable throughout the process and that your experience with us is as smooth and pleasant as possible. And, if dental bonding isn’t the right solution for you, we have various other methods to ensure your smile stays healthy and radiant.
Let us show you how dental bonding can make a meaningful difference in your smile! Schedule your appointment today!
Frequently Asked Questions
After dental bonding, it is normal to experience some tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures. This sensitivity usually lasts for a couple of days following the procedure. Most patients find that it diminishes significantly within this time frame and does not cause further issues.
If the sensitivity persists beyond a few days, it’s a good idea to call our office for a follow-up so we can ensure no underlying issues need to be addressed. We are here to help you with any concerns!
The cost of dental bonding can vary based on several factors, such as the number of teeth being treated and the complexity of the procedure. More extensive repairs or reshaping may require additional time and materials, increasing the overall cost.
We recognize that dental treatments can be a significant investment. To help manage these expenses, we work with financing companies to offer flexible payment options. Our goal is to ensure you receive the necessary treatment without financial stress.
With proper care, dental bonding can last up to 10 years. Maintaining good oral hygiene—like regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups—can help extend its lifespan. To preserve the bonding, avoid hard foods that could chip it and limit staining beverages to keep it looking and functioning well.