Cosmetic Bonding: Subtle Repairs in a Single Visit

What Is Dental Bonding?

Bonding is a technique in which a tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the surface of a tooth, sculpted into shape, and hardened with a special light. Because it adheres directly to the enamel, it usually requires little or no removal of natural tooth structure.

Common Uses

Bonding can repair small chips and cracks, close minor gaps between teeth, cover areas of discoloration, lengthen a tooth that appears short, or protect a root surface exposed by gum recession. It is also used for tooth-colored fillings.

The Process

A resin shade is chosen to match your surrounding teeth. The tooth surface is lightly roughened and conditioned so the material can bond securely. The resin is then applied in layers, shaped, cured, and polished to a natural luster. Many bonding procedures are completed in a single visit, and anesthesia is often unnecessary unless decay is being treated.

Considerations and Care

Composite resin is not as stain-resistant or as strong as porcelain, so bonded areas may gradually pick up color from coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco, and they can chip if used to bite hard objects. Routine polishing at hygiene visits helps maintain their appearance, and bonding can be touched up or redone when needed.

For many people, bonding offers a gentle, reversible-feeling way to make small improvements to the smile.