|
Bonding and White Fillings
When teeth are chipped or slightly decayed, bonding may be the best cosmetic choice. Bonding material, called composite resin, is a great tooth-coloured filling for small cavities and broken or chipped teeth. It can also be used to close spaces between teeth. Additionally, it is used to cover the entire outside surface of a tooth to change its colour and shape. However, bonding has its limits. It may not be strong enough or durable enough for certain individual situations. Where these situations exist, the best choice may be porcelain laminate veneers or crowns (caps).
How is it done?
First, the tooth structure is cleaned and etched with a mild acid. A clear adhesive is applied to the area needing bonding. Then, the tooth coloured bonding material is placed on the tooth and shaped. It is permanently hardened and fused to the tooth with an ultraviolet light. Once the material is hard, it can be further shaped and polished to match your surrounding teeth. Bonding materials are very durable and will give you many years of service with little maintenance. Ask us if bonding is right for you.
|