Can You Make Short Teeth Longer?
Dental Bonding and Tooth Lengthening
Dental bonding can be used to extend the length of small teeth. During the dental bonding procedure, the dentist will apply a special composite dental resin to the surface of the teeth. Composite resin can be used for various cosmetic improvements, including lengthening the tooth, improving the overall shape of the tooth, and enhancing the tooth’s general appearance.
It is common for the dentist to use dental bonding for making one or two teeth longer, or making the teeth more even in their appearance. Bonding can also be used to fill in small gaps between the teeth, correct teeth which are misshapen, and conceal stains or other types of cosmetic flaws. Bonding is quite versatile and can be used to treat a variety of issues. It is also very affordable compared to other types of treatments.
Treatment Time
Once a patient decides to move forward with dental bonding, the process can usually be completed in a single appointment. The process will start with a thorough cleaning of the teeth. The dentist will then use a special acid to etch or roughen up the tooth. This ensures the resin is more secure and can adhere properly to the tooth. The tooth is naturally very smooth.
During the next step of the procedure, the dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin directly to the tooth. The dentist will shape the resin and use an ultraviolet light to cure or harden it. Lastly, the resin will be trimmed to improve the appearance of the tooth. The procedure does not require numbing or any type of anesthetic as there is no pain involved or modification of the natural tooth. The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes per tooth. In many cases, the dentist can treat numerous teeth in a single appointment.
Post-treatment Care
In general, patients can treat their new smile just like their natural teeth once the procedure is finished. It is extremely important for patients to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing the teeth at least twice each day and daily flossing. Patients should consume a healthy diet, consume minimal amounts of alcohol and quit the use of any tobacco products or stop smoking.
There are a few things patients can do to maximize the lifespan of their dental bonding. These guidelines are similar to maintaining healthy natural teeth. Patients should never use their teeth as a tool. This can include using the teeth to open, tear, or for other non-natural purposes. The teeth should only be used to chew food. Using the teeth as a tool can cause damage to the bonding in addition to the natural teeth.
Patients should also avoid chewing on objects other than food. This can include things such as pencils, pens, and fingernails. These types of habits can slowly cause damage to the bonding. Do not chew or bite into hard foods such as hard candy, almonds, and popcorn kernels with the front teeth. If a patient consumes these types of foods, they should use the back molars.
Dental Bonding Lifespan
In most cases, dental bonding can last about 5-7 years. The life expectancy of bonding can vary for each patient based on their daily habits and oral hygiene. The patient’s diet can also impact the lifespan of their bonding. The lifespan of dental bonding is shorter than other cosmetic treatments such as veneers and crowns. Bonding is reversible, affordable, and can offer quick results. As a result, it is an excellent treatment option for many patients. Follow up with your dentist to discuss if you may be a good candidate for the use of dental bonding to lengthen your teeth.