Composite Resin Fillings and Bondings

What is a Bonding?
Bonding is a term used to describe a number of procedures that involve applying composite resin filling to the tooth. Regardless of its use, it can provide an attractive result. In contrast to a silver filling, a composite resin filling will appear as natural as tooth structure.

How Bonding is Performed?
It’s often completed in one visit and often does not require the use of anesthesia or drilling. The process involves preparing the tooth surface with an etching solution that allows the composite resin filling to adhere. To match the color of your teeth, various colors of resins are carefully blended so the bonded tooth will look natural.

The composite resin filling is applied, contoured into the proper shape and hardened using a special light or chemical process. It is smoothed and polished to appear natural. Sometimes a follow-up appointment will be required for final polishing and finishing

Aftercare
Because composite resin material is not as strong as natural tooth enamel, it can chip and may have to be replaced periodically. Bonded areas of the tooth are also prone to stain. For these reasons, bonding requires careful home and professional maintenance. You can help maintain your bonding by following these tips.
– Avoid acids (such as vinegar, tomatoes, or pineapples) and alcohol which can damage the resins.
– Avoid items that can stain bonding material such as cigarettes, coffee, tea, and berries.
– Do not put excess pressure on resins. Chewing ice, popcorn kernels and hard candy can cause damage.

What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Bonding?

Advantages: Dental bonding is among the easiest and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures. Unlike veneers and crowns, which are customized tooth coverings that must be manufactured in a laboratory, bonding usually can be done in one office visit unless several teeth are involved. Another advantage, compared with veneers and crowns, is that the least amount of tooth enamel is removed. Also, unless dental bonding is being performed to fill a cavity, anesthesia is usually not required.

Disadvantages: Although the material used in dental bonding is somewhat stain resistant, it does not resist stains as well as crowns. Another disadvantage is that the bonding materials do not last as long nor are as strong as other restorative procedures, such as crowns, veneers, or fillings. Additionally, bonding materials can chip and break off the tooth.