Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a term used to describe permanently attaching dental materials to one’s teeth using dental adhesives and high-intensity curing light.

Direct Composite Bonding

Dentists use tooth-colored composites regularly to fill cavities, repair chips or cracks, close gaps between teeth, and build up worn-down edges. This procedure is typically done in one day since the bonding involves the precise placement and hardening of bonding materials. While dentists call them direct composite veneers, many people refer to them as “bonding.” Composite bonding is usually the ideal and least-expensive solution for most dental issues.

Adhesive Bonding

In a bonding procedure, the restoration is attached to the tooth using an etchant, a bonding agent that is cured with a high-intensity light. This method is typically used for esthetic and metal-free crowns, porcelain veneers, bridges, inlays/onlays, and fillings.

The Procedure

The typical steps for a direct composite restoration include:

  1. Applying a rubber dam to isolate the tooth, preventing moisture from interfering with the procedure
  2. A phosphoric acid solution is applied to the tooth to create a surface that better allows for the composite and adhesive to stick together
  3. A putty-like composite resin is applied and shaped in stages to fit the desired shape
  4. A high-intensity curing light will be used to harden the current layer of resin so that a new layer can be applied on top of it. Artistic skill and precision are required to sculpt the resin properly, and in some cases, a putty stent based on an impression of the patient’s teeth and a model of their desired smile may be required
  5. An appropriate and smooth finish is created to ensure that the bonded resin does not dislodge or cause tooth sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is common immediately following a procedure, but it should be short-lived

If the restoration is done from a laboratory, the dental professional will place the adhesive into the restoration, seat the restoration on the tooth, and then light-cure it using a high-intensity curing light.

Consultation and Treatment Planning

To first determine if dental problems can be solved with direct composite bonding, a dental professional will conduct an examination, which includes reviewing X-rays of the patient’s teeth. Direct composite bonding may resolve issues such as cavities, chips, cracks, fractures, gaps and spaces between teeth, and tooth discoloration. However, extensively damaged teeth may require other options such as crowns or veneers.

If direct composite bonding is the best course of action, the dentist may opt for a pre-treatment teeth-whitening in order to better match the color of the composite restoration. An impression of the patient’s teeth may also be needed if the bonding materials will be used to lengthen or change the shape of the teeth.

After Care

Brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day, and regularly visiting one’s dentist are all part of proper oral hygiene that will help avoid any damage to composite bonding restorations. One should also refrain from biting hard objects such as fingernails or ice.

Cost

Many factors go into the cost of the procedure, such as the dentist’s reputation, experience, and training, as well as the patient’s location and insurance. However, the average bonding is usually between $400 and $2,000 per tooth.

Related Article: What is Dental Bonding?