At Oak Grove Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide an extensive menu of cosmetic dentistry services including teeth bonding in Durham, NC. Teeth bonding is a minimally invasive approach to cosmetic dentistry, allowing us to address minor imperfections that may be interfering with your overall smile aesthetics.
Dr. Erika Graham is your local cosmetic dentist in Durham, North Carolina. Learn how Dr. Graham can improve your smile using teeth bonding solutions.
Teeth Bonding in Durham, NC
Small, minor blemishes can have a major impact on the overall uniformity of your smile. With our teeth bonding services, we conceal minor imperfections on your dental structures using a resin material similar to what it used for dental fillings. The tooth-colored resin material is designed to match the rest of your smile, ensuring the finished product blends in seamlessly with your smile.
What is Dental Bonding?
Teeth bonding, also known as composite bonding or dental bonding, is a cosmetic dentistry procedure where your dentist will apply a tooth-colored resin material to your tooth. They will shape the material to hide imperfections, and the material will blend in with your tooth. This procedure is commonly used to repair minor to moderately chipped or damaged teeth.
Teeth bonding can be used to address any of the following dental concerns:
- Minor chips
- Minor cracks
- Dental stains
- Gaps between teeth
The Tooth Bonding Procedure
Our doctors will first check to ensure that any underlying dental concerns are treated before offering cosmetic dentistry options. If any dental damages are impacting the overall functionality of a tooth, restorative dentistry options are also available to address these concerns.
The procedure is fairly simple and will be performed during one office visit. Dr. Graham will prepare the tooth by removing a very minimal amount of the tooth’s surface. Next, she will place the composite resin on the portion of the tooth being treated and mold it into the proper form. It will be colored matched to blend in naturally with the surrounding tooth. The last step is to use a curing light that will harden the resin.
Teeth bonding is suitable for patients of all ages, including children. Some children may have small imperfections on their baby teeth that will go away as their permanent teeth grow in. This makes them the perfect candidates for teeth bonding because small imperfections can be easily concealed using the bonding material in the meantime.
Teeth Bonding FAQs
Our teeth bonding FAQs section address common questions about dental bonding. As a trusted local Durham, NC dentist office, we understand the importance of providing information to help you make informed decisions about your oral health. Learn about the versatility of dental bonding, its cosmetic and restorative applications, and get answers to frequently asked questions. We hope you find all the information you need about dental bonding here and on our website. However, if you have additional questions or concern, please contact us for help.
How long goes teeth bonding last?
The bonding material can last on your dental structures for up to ten years. However, your dentist can easily reapply bonding material to maintain your smile aesthetics for many more years after that. As long as you brush and floss twice a day and see your dentist twice a year, your teeth will remain beautiful and healthy.
What does a dental bonding procedure repair?
Dental bonding can help with a wide range of issues such as chipped or fractured teeth. It can also improve the appearance of stained teeth and even help to close gaps. Additionally, it can be the treatment of choice for individuals looking to fill cavities.
How many appointments will I need with dental bonding?
This is a very standard procedure that doesn’t take much time. Your dentist should be able to complete a dental bonding procedure in a single appointment. However, it will depend on the number and difficulty of restorations that you may have. Highly aesthetic restorations tend to take more time.
Will the restoration with dental bonding look natural?
Yes. Dental bonding materials are made to mimic the natural color and texture of the teeth. Furthermore, a skilled cosmetic dentist can make any restoration look as close to your natural tooth as possible.
How does tooth bonding compare to porcelain veneers?
Dental bonding is a more cost-effective and less invasive option for addressing minor cosmetic issues. However, it is less durable and stain-resistant than porcelain veneers. Dental veneers offer a longer-lasting solution with enhanced aesthetics. This make veneers more suitable for more extensive smile transformations and lasting up to 15 years or more.
Is dental bonding painful?
The dental bonding procedure is not painful. It involves minimal enamel removal making anesthesia unnecessary. Some of our patients may experience minor sensitivity, but discomfort is generally minimal. Dr. Graham will ensure your comfort throughout the process, making it a relatively painless cosmetic dentistry option.
How durable is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is durable but may not be as long-lasting as other restorative options such as porcelain veneers. The lifespan will vary based on factors like oral care, biting habits, and the extent of bonding. With proper maintenance, it can provide you with a reliable solution for addressing cosmetic concerns, such as chips or discoloration.
Does dental bonding require special care?
Yes, dental bonding requires regular care. It will benefit from proper oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups. Avoiding habits like biting on hard objects can help maintain the integrity of your bonded teeth, ensuring their long-term success.
Is tooth bonding reversible?
Yes, dental bonding is reversible. If necessary, the bonded material can be removed or replaced. However, Dr. Graham will need to examine your teeth first to determine which alternative option is best for you based on your individual dental needs and conditions.
Can dental bonding be used for all teeth?
While dental bonding is a versatile treatment, it may not be suitable for all situations. It is commonly used for minor cosmetic issues but may not provide the same durability as other restorative options. Dr. Graham will evaluate your case to determine the most appropriate treatment for teeth and condition.
Is teeth bonding covered by dental insurance?
Coverage for dental bonding will vary. Some dental insurance plans may cover the cost of bonding if it is deemed a necessary restorative procedure, addressing issues such as chips or decay. We advise all patients to check with their insurance provider to determine the extent of coverage for dental bonding in their specific case.
Schedule a Consultation for Teeth Bonding in Durham, NC Today
Want to learn more about your cosmetic dentistry options including dental bonding? It is our most conservative approach to cosmetic dentistry, allowing patients to conceal imperfections with a minimally invasive, one-appointment procedure. Schedule an appointment with Oak Grove Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. We look forward to helping you create your dream smile.