Cosmetic Dentistry (Bonding)

  You may be at a time when you have the option to improve your smile as opposed to handling emergencies and preventive care. Dental bonding is an aspect of cosmetic dentistry aimed at restoring or perfecting the appearance of your teeth, without surgery. Creedmoor Family Dentistry is happy to offer dental bonding, and you can call to set up an appointment with Dr. Willis if you want to correct cracked, crooked, or discolored teeth.

What Is Dental Bonding?
  Dental bonding is a procedure in which composite tooth-colored resin is applied to the teeth and hardened with a special light, which bonds the material to the tooth for an esthetically pleasing effect. It’s a good choice if you have a minor issue, such as cracked, stained, or misshapen teeth.
  The only thing dental bonding can’t do is whiten your entire smile, but it can be colored to look like your natural teeth. If you’re interested in brightening all of your teeth, ask Dr. Willis about having your teeth whitened before the bonding process, to get as bright and healthy-looking a smile as you wish.

When Should I Consider Dental Bonding?
  Some small dentistry issues can make you feel less confident and ready to smile. Dental bonding can remedy the following:
  • Cracked, chipped, or decayed teeth
  • Discolored or stained teeth
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Crooked or misshapen teeth
  • Unsightly metal fillings
  • Exposed tooth roots caused by gum recession
  Contact Creedmoor Family Dentistry if you would like to resolve any of these issues through dental bonding, and we’ll happily make you an appointment to see Dr. Willis.

What’s Involved with Dental Bonding?
  Dental bonding is an easy, painless procedure. Dr. Willis will use a shade guide to match a composite resin color to your own teeth. A gentle phosphoric acid will be applied to your tooth surface, along with a conditioning liquid, to etch and roughen your teeth so the bonding material will stay in place. The acid doesn’t hurt and won’t eat through your teeth.
The bonding material is then placed on the surface of your teeth, shaped, and smoothed. An ultraviolet light or laser is used to harden and set the material. After that, Dr. Willis will trim and shape the composite and then polish it so it matches the sheen of the rest of your tooth surface. In all, the process takes 30 – 60 minutes to complete.
Caring for Bonded TeethTaking care of bonded teeth is as simple as following your regular oral health routine. You should continue to brush twice a day, floss daily, and see Dr. Willis for your routine check-ups and cleanings. Keep in mind, though, that dental bonding is susceptible to staining and chipping, and be careful to avoid the following:
  • Chewing on hard foods and objects
  • Excessive consumption of red wine, tea, and coffee
  • Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
If you notice any sharp edges or you feel something’s not right with your teeth when you bite down, call Dr. Willis to have the bonding checked for repairs or touchups.
While dental bonding can’t fix all your dental problems, it can definitely make you feel better about yourself. Call us at Creedmoor Family Dentistry and see if Dr. Willis can help you feel good about your smile again.