Dental bonding involves the use of a tooth-coloured composite material for the repair of chipped or broken teeth, white fillings, modification of teeth shape, production of composite veneers and even for the closing of gaps or space between your teeth. Because of their complication, these bonding procedures should only be carried out by skilled dentists.
WHITE FILLINGS
Dental bonding is perfect for white fillings since it results to more natural-looking teeth, compared to amalgam fillings. Old fillings are usually replaced with white fillings for aesthetic purposes. In some cases, other restorations are used instead of fillings because the composite material is usually not as tough. Dental bonding, therefore, is best for smaller fillings, where the teeth will not be subjected to great pressure. Advances in technology have given birth to CAD/CAM CEREC treatment, which can fabricate ceramic fillings that possess the advantage of being strong and nice to look at.
The procedure
The procedure for composite bonding starts with the numbing of your tooth and surrounding gum with local anaesthesia. The surface of the tooth will be cleaned thoroughly in order to remove traces of plaque and other food debris as well as create a smooth surface of the attachment of the composite. The correct colour of the composite material will then be determined to ensure exact likeness. Your dentist will surround the tooth with a latex sheet or rolls of cotton to keep it dry. If needed, your dentist will re-shape your tooth with a drill.
A phosphoric acid-based conditioner applied on the tooth will make the composite material adhere properly. After applying the composite to the tooth surface, it will be exposed to a special light to harden it. Your dentist will apply the composite in very thin layers until desired results are achieved. Once the composite is completely dry, the tooth will be polished and buffed. Unlike ceramic restorations, dental bonding is not as strong and likely to stain nearby teeth. But if properly done, these composite fillings can last for as long as 10 years.
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