What is Dental Bonding?

Bonding is an aesthetic dental procedure used to correct minor imperfections in teeth. It involves applying a special composite resin (a tooth-colored filling material) to the tooth surface to improve its shape, size, or color. It’s a quick, painless procedure that doesn’t harm the natural tooth structure.

How is Dental Bonding Performed?

A bonding procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes and involves the following steps:

  1. Examination and Planning

    Your dentist will assess your tooth’s condition and determine which areas need bonding. They’ll also select the correct shade to ensure the bonding blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

  2. Tooth Preparation

    Anesthesia is usually not required unless there’s decay or a fracture in the tooth, in which case a local anesthetic may be used. The tooth surface is gently roughened to allow the bonding material to adhere better. A bonding gel is then applied to prepare the tooth for the composite material.

  3. Composite Resin Application

    The selected tooth-colored composite material is applied to the tooth in layers. It’s carefully shaped to match the tooth’s natural structure.

  4. Curing with a Special Light

    The applied composite is hardened using a blue LED light (UV light). This process integrates the bonding material with the tooth, making it durable.

  5. Shaping and Polishing

    Finally, your dentist will make any necessary final adjustments, remove excess material, and shape the tooth to fit its natural contours. The surface is then polished to achieve a smooth, glossy appearance.