Dental Bonding
Life happens and teeth can become chipped, cracked, or discolored. One of the ways our Tampa, FL, cosmetic dentist can fix these issues is to recommend dental bonding which uses a tooth-colored resin to camouflage imperfections and enhance the appearance of a patient’s smile. The resin is applied, shaped, and hardened with a special light, then polished to match the surrounding teeth. This quick, cost-effective +solution involves minimal tooth preparation and is ideal for minor repairs, but can also close gaps and alter tooth shape.
Learn more about cosmetic bonding below.
How Bonding and Veneers Relate
While dental bonding and porcelain veneers are both popular cosmetic dental options, they serve different purposes and are suitable for varying needs. As mentioned above, bonding involves applying a composite resin material to the surface of the tooth, which is then shaped and polished to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Overall, the dental bonding procedure is ideal for small fixes.
On the other hand, veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the entire front surface of the tooth. They are typically used for more extensive cosmetic corrections, such as significantly stained, misaligned, or irregularly shaped teeth. Ultimately, our dentist can help you determine which option is best suited to your individual needs and aesthetic goals.
The Dental Bonding Process at a Glance
Fortunately for patients, tooth bonding is straightforward and usually completed in a single visit to our Tampa dental office. It begins with our dentist using a shade guide to select a resin color that matches your natural enamel. The tooth surface is then lightly roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied to help the bonding material adhere.
Next, the tooth-colored resin is applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape. A curing light is used to harden the resin, effectively bonding it to the tooth surface. Once hardened, our dentist will trim, shape, and polish the bonded material to match the sheen of the surrounding teeth. The entire process typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, making it a convenient option for minor cosmetic improvements.
Call Our Office Today
Our cosmetic dentist in Tampa, FL, is here to help you achieve natural, beautiful results with dental bonding. Whether you’re looking to repair a chipped tooth, close a small gap, or improve the overall appearance of your teeth, this procedure offers a fast and effective solution. Call Imagine Dental today at (813) 866-7080 to request an appointment and learn more about how dental bonding can transform your smile.