Fixing Gaps Between Teeth with Dental Bonding
Approximately ¼ of Americans have a gap between their front teeth. This gap, technically called diastema, is more common than you may have realized. Individuals with diastema often have little hope for how they can change the appearance of their smile. Fortunately, there are many options available to fix diastema. Cosmetic dental bonding is one of the most popular approaches to fixing diastema. Here is more information on how dental bonding can be used to minimize unwanted gaps or space between teeth, including diastema.
What is Dental Bonding?
Composite dental bonding kingwood tx is a minimally invasive dental procedure where a tooth-colored composite is applied directly to the teeth. Once the composite putty is applied to the teeth, the dentist will sculpt the composite to the desired shape and size to fill or minimize gaps. Often this involves applying composite to teeth on both side of the gaps and making the teeth appear larger to minimize the gap. Overall, the dental bonding procedure is popular because it is non-invasive, relatively quick, and pain-free. Additionally, the procedure can be completed in just one dental visit.
Dental Bonding Steps
The composite dental bonding procedure is quick and straightforward process with just a few simple steps, including:
- The dentist selects a composite that matches the shade of the natural teeth.
- Next, the tooth is prepared for the bonding, which includes re-surfacing the tooth to help ensure the bonding will adhere. This can be done with a liquid or may require etching to make the surface rougher.
- The composite is then applied and sculpted onto the teeth. This is the part when the bonding procedure is a customized approach.
- Once the dentist is satisfied with the appearance of the bonding, they use a UV light or laser to harden the composite.
- After the bonding has hardened, the surface of the tooth is polished to match the nearby natural teeth.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dental Bonding?
Deciding if dental bonding is right for you may require some thought. Depending on the extent of the space between your teeth, there may be alternative treatments to consider to repair your diastema or spacing. If you have other gaps or misalignment issues, seeing an orthodontist may be the best place to start. To determine if cosmetic bonding is right for you, you should have a conversation with your dentist. If your dentist suggests dental bonding, you should still consider some important factors, including:
- Dental bonding can be stained from coffee, tea, wine or cigarettes
- Bonding composite is not as durable as some alternative options, such as veneers.
- Dental bonding is affordable up front, but the results only last up to 10 years
If you have diastema, or other spacing between teeth, and you have always wanted to change the appearance of your smile, you should have a discussion with your dentist. Your dentist can help you decide if you are a good candidate for dental bonding. You may have not realized, but dental bonding is an easy, affordable, and non-invasive solution to help fix unwanted gaps between teeth.