Teeth Bonding

Cosmetic Dentistry in Oklahoma

Composite dental bonding is a technique that can work wonders for your smile.

Dental composite material has a paste-like consistency so that it can be sculpted to the proper shape. It contains pigments that are matched to your tooth color, and which come in different degrees of translucency.

Matched to the shade, translucency, and texture of your teeth, this material is applied, hardened and sculpted:

• To close gaps between teeth
• To cover flaws such as discolored patches and little chips
• To improve the color or shape of teeth

How is a tooth bonded?

Tooth bonding is usually a one-visit procedure.

• Dr. Duncan will prepare the tooth by lightly roughening the area to be repaired
• This usually doesn't require anesthetic
• The surface of the tooth is then etched with a gel
• Bonding primers and resins are applied in several layers, so as to match the depth of color in the natural teeth
• A high-intensity curing light is used to harden it

How long will teeth bonding last?

Durability of the bonding depends on factors unique to the individual.

• For many people the bonding will look as good after 10 or 15 years as the day it was done
• Some people will have stains on the margins of the bonding after 1 or 2 years and they'll need some touch-up work
• If you care for it well, you probably won't have to replace it, but some touch-up work would be normal after 3 to 5 years.

In general, with normal mouth conditions and adequate care, the tooth bonding work will keep its color and withstand the stresses of ordinary mouth function.

Ongoing care

• Have your teeth cleaned 2 to 4 times a year by a hygienist skilled in bonding maintenance.
• Brush and floss faithfully.
• Avoid sweets or starchy foods between meals.
• Be careful to choose gentle cleaning tools. Harsh toothpaste will dull the shine and make the bonding more susceptible to staining. Too hard a toothbrush could also damage it.

If you have extensive bonding work done, we recommend that you get regular professional maintenance.

If you have minor flaws in one or even in many teeth, you can regard dental bonding as a quick and economical way to improve the appearance or your teeth.

If you're considering dental bonding in Oklahoma City, please call or
e-mail us today.