Dental Bonding in Woodbridge, VA
A latin senior couple smiling at the camera.
Composite bonding is a common cosmetic dentistry service in Woodbridge, VA. Dentists might recommend it to patients to fix an array of imperfections, including yellowed or decayed teeth. Fast and affordable, the process uses a special resin to give your smile a makeover.
What Is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding bonds an adhesive to a tooth to give it a more uniform appearance. So, if you have a diseased tooth that doesn’t need an extraction, you might opt for composite bonding to make the damaged tooth look like the rest of your healthy teeth. Or, if you have a cracked tooth that doesn’t require a root canal, the composite bonding process can help you cover the crack (and potentially strengthen the tooth in the process).
Is Composite Bonding the Same as a Veneer?
Composite bonding does share certain similarities with veneers, particularly when veneers can be made of composite materials. A veneer is a thin-shell material that covers the tooth to conceal an aesthetic flaw. The composite bonding effect is similar to veneers in that you can cover up anything from chips in your tooth to discoloration.
However, the process and price differ, and the results may not last as long as veneers. Composite bonding is generally a good solution for more minor flaws, whereas veneers can fix more severe imperfections.
How Does the Composite Bonding Process Work?
If you’re looking for composite bonding in Woodbridge, the process is fairly straightforward:
- Evaluation: Composite bonding can’t replace required dentistry. The dentist will start with a thorough evaluation to determine whether composite bonding is appropriate for your oral health.
- Color shade: The color of the resin will determine the color of the bonded tooth. It will stand out if it’s far whiter than your other teeth. This is a good time to discuss with your dentist whether it makes sense to have professional teeth whitening services before your composite bonding so you can get the smile shade you’re looking for.
- Prep: The amount of prep your tooth undergoes depends on the extent of the damage. If it’s small enough, you don’t need local anesthesia. If the chip or crack is closer to the nerve, the dentist may numb the area so you don’t experience discomfort.
- Surface prep: If the adhesive is going to stick on your teeth, the tooth needs to have a slightly uneven surface so the bonding has something to cling to. Dentists in Woodbridge, VA use a solution to roughen the tooth’s exterior and then apply a conditioning solution to further improve the bond’s strength.
- Application: The resin is then applied and shaped to the tooth. This part requires some expertise on the part of the dentist, as there is some sculpting of the resin involved. The dentist will then use ultraviolet light to harden the resin.
- Adjustment: Composite bonding is not necessarily a one-and-done procedure. Because the resin is flexible, the dentist can refine the tooth’s shape and adjust your bite as needed. Once both you and the dentist are happy with the results, the dentist will polish the tooth for a smooth and natural appearance.
Find Composite Bonding in Woodbridge, VA
Composite bonding can last up to 10 years, depending on the resin used and the amount of wear and tear on the tooth. The best way to get the most from your investment is to keep up with your oral hygiene routines and follow your dentist’s instructions to the letter.
If you’re looking for an experienced dentist who can help you get the smile you’ve always wanted, the specialists at Niles Dental are here to help. If you’re looking for fast and effective services, we can recommend the services to get you the smile you want!
