Bonding

Bonding is an alternative to veneers and can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are crowded, chipped, cracked or discolored.

How does it work?

The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly preparing and etching the surface and by application of a bonding agent. This bonding agent is cured with a visible light wand and once it sets, a tooth-colored resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the prosthodontist. When the desired shape is achieved, the resin is finely contoured and polished to achieve a natural, functional, comfortable and aesthetic appearance.

Considerations

The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit and can significantly improve the appearance of a tooth. However, since the  resin restorative material used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely (when compared to natural tooth enamel) to stain and chip. Bonding typically lasts ten years before it needs repair.