
Dental Bonding: Restorative Alternative to Veneers
Dental bonding is a versatile and affordable alternative to veneers, often used to restore teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or slightly misaligned. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the affected area, which is then shaped, hardened, and polished for a natural look. It's a quick and effective way to enhance your smile and improve the overall appearance of your teeth.
How Does Dental Bonding Work?
To prepare the tooth for dental bonding, the surface is gently etched and coated with a bonding agent. Once the bonding liquid sets, a tooth-colored resin is carefully applied and sculpted into the ideal shape. After hardening, the resin is precisely trimmed, smoothed, and polished to create a natural-looking finish.
Considerations for Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is typically completed in just one office visit and can dramatically enhance the appearance of a tooth. While effective and convenient, the composite resin used isn’t as durable as natural enamel, making it more prone to staining, chipping, or breaking over time. On average, bonding lasts between three to five years before it may require touch-ups or replacement.