Dental Bonding

Dental Bonding treatments abroad

What Is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding, or tooth bonding, involves a dentist applying a resin material to the outside of the tooth and then curing it using ultraviolet light or a laser, similar to the way a dentist might perform a tooth filling. The material applied to the outside of the tooth dries the same color as the tooth, and generally improves the tooth's overall appearance. Dental bonding is used to repair chips, fractures, discoloration, decay, or other damage to the appearance or structure of the tooth. Dental bonding is easier, cheaper, and generally faster than veneers which must be manufactured. Dental bonding can be done in one visit and usually does not involve anesthesia unless the tooth is severely decayed. The resin used in bonding usually lasts several years, but is not as strong as the natural materials of the teeth and can be chipped or discolored.

There is little to no risk involved with this procedure and patients can travel the same day. The dentist will first prepare the surface of the enamel by applying a mild acid to make the surface rough. They will then apply a conditioning liquid to help the resin adhere to the tooth. Once the resin has set, they will cure it using light to harden it, and then use a tool to shape the resin to match the shape of the tooth. Finally, the resin will be polished to match the rest of the teeth. Your dentist may recommend dental bonds to repair damage to the outside of a tooth without more complicated work such as veneers.

Dental bonds are simpler and far less expensive than veneers, but may not last as long or provide the exact same results. Dental bonds may also be used for pediatric dental patients until the tooth is replaced by adult teeth. Other related procedures Tooth filling abroad A tooth filling restores a tooth that has been damaged by decay back to its normal shape. The decayed tooth material is removed, the affected area is cleaned and the cavity is then filled in with a filling material.  A veneer is thin layer of material that is placed over a tooth in order to protect the tooth's surface from further damage or to improve the overall appearance of the tooth. The material used is usually either composite or dental porcelain.