Cosmetic Bonding

Dental composite bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure used to repair or enhance the appearance of teeth. It involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material to the tooth’s surface to correct imperfections such as chips, cracks, discoloration, gaps, or misshapen teeth.

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Cosmetic Bonding​

Features

  • Cost-Effective:
    Less expensive than veneers or crowns, making it a more affordable cosmetic option.
  • Minimally Invasive:
    Requires little to no enamel removal compared to veneers or crowns.
    Typically painless and does not require anesthesia (unless filling a cavity).
  • Natural Appearance:
    The resin can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
  • Reversible:
    Since minimal enamel is removed, the procedure can be reversed if needed.
  • Versatile:
    Can repair chips, cracks, discoloration, gaps, and minor tooth misalignment.

FAQs Bonding (White Filling)

A white cosmetic filling is made of a tooth-colored composite resin material that closely matches the natural color of the teeth.  It is a popular choice for dental restorations due to its esthetic appeal and ability to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. 

White cosmetic fillings are used for various purposes, including:

  • Cavity Fillings: When a tooth develops a cavity due to decay, a white cosmetic filling can be used to restore the tooth’s structure and function.
  • Chipped or Cracked Teeth: If a tooth is chipped or cracked, dental bonding can be used to repair the damage and restore the tooth’s appearance.
  • Closing Gaps Between Teeth: Dental bonding can be used to close small gaps or spaces between teeth, improving the overall appearance of the smile.
  • Cosmetic Enhancements: White cosmetic fillings can also be used for cosmetic enhancements, such as reshaping irregularly shaped teeth, covering stains, or discoloration on the tooth surface.

The procedure for placing a white cosmetic filling typically involves the following steps:

  • Preparation: Dr. Van Winkle or Dr. Homayoon will first prepare the affected tooth by removing any decayed or damaged tooth structure.
  • Bonding: The tooth surface is etched, and a bonding agent is applied to help the composite resin material to adhere to the tooth.
  • Placement of Composite Resin: The tooth-colored composite resin material is carefully placed, shaped, and molded to fill the cavity or repair the damaged area.  
  • Curing: A special light is used to harden or cure the composite resin material, bonding it securely to the tooth. 
  • Final Shaping and Polishing: After the filling has hardened, Dr. Van Winkle or Dr. Homayoon will check your bite and/or the areas between the teeth and adjust, if necessary.  The filling is then polished to match the natural shine of the surrounding teeth. 
  • Esthetic appeal: White fillings closely mimic the natural appearance of teeth.
  • Conservative Treatment: White cosmetic fillings require minimal removal of tooth structure compared to traditional metal amalgam fillings.
  • Biocompatibility: Composite resin materials used in white cosmetic fillings are biocompatible and less likely to cause allergic reactions.

  •  Immediately after treatment the area would be numb if local anesthetic was utilized. Care must be taken to avoid eating or drinking until the anesthetic has fully worn off. Children especially are prone to damaging oral soft tissues including the tongue, lips and cheek due to unknowingly chewing their lips and cheeks as they are unaccustomed to the feeling of numbness caused by local anesthetic.