When Is Dental Bonding the Best Solution?

Have a chipped or cracked smile? Dental bonding can help fix your grin or at least repair it temporarily while you and your dentist decide how to proceed on a rehabilitation. Dental bonding is a simple and speedy procedure that uses a strong, safe, sterile material to correct flaws.

At the dental practice of Dr. Padmaja Yalamanchili in Fairfax, Virginia, dental bonding is part of the cosmetic dentistry lineup, whether you need a simple chip repaired or a quick fix to bridge a gap until you’re ready for a larger restoration.

Dental bonding 101 

Composite resin is a versatile material, especially in dentistry. It has a puttylike consistency, making it easy to work with. It can also be color-matched to the existing enamel, helping it blend in naturally with the rest of your teeth. 

Dental bonding requires little preparation, and can usually be done in a single visit. Unless a deep filling is needed, anesthesia is not necessary either. 

First, Dr. Yalamanchili roughens the surface of your tooth, which allows the resin to adhere better. Once she’s matched the shade to your enamel, she can mold the resin to your tooth. This is a delicate process, as it has to be sculpted and shaped to sit evenly among your surrounding teeth. 

Finally, the resin is cured using blue light, which causes it to harden and bond to your tooth. While the lifespan of a bonded tooth depends on the initial damage and your personal oral health habits, cured resin is extremely durable and can hold up for years. 

When dental bonding is best

Dr. Yalamanchili can use composite resin to fill small cavities, rebuild chipped teeth, and improve the appearance of discolored or decayed areas. If you’re pressed for time or money, dental bonding can provide a fast, affordable solution for small imperfections. 

However, there are limitations to this method. Resin does not resist stains as well as porcelain, and the bonding materials are not as strong. While dental bonding is great for small repairs, extensive restorations should be done thoroughly. 

If the damage or decay to your original tooth is too much to repair with resin, a crown can protect what’s left by capping it off. Significant aesthetic flaws may be better corrected with veneers, which can completely transform your smile.

Before doing any work, Dr. Yalamanchili will examine your teeth to determine whether dental bonding will be effective. The goal is to restore your teeth in a way that will look, function, and feel as natural as possible, for as long as possible. She’ll make sure to go over all of your options, answer your questions, and address any concerns you might have. 

Want to restore your smile fast? Schedule a consultation by calling 703-213-5312, or book an appointment online.