Why Choose Tooth Bonding in Knoxville, TN
Tooth bonding can be an economical alternative to dental veneers and can be used to treat a wide range of dental concerns effectively. Dr. Cain may recommend tooth bonding as a treatment option for the following reasons:
- To repair small cracks or chips
- To rebuild worn edges
- To fill small gaps between teeth
- To correct minor discoloration
- To fill tooth cavities
Dr. Cain uses a modern approach to tooth bonding, combining a unique technique and color-matched composite resin to treat a wide range of cosmetic and tooth structure issues, including dark triangles between teeth.
A skilled dentist with an eye for aesthetics, Dr. Cain can use this modern bonding technique, also known as injection over-molding, to provide flawless results and a beautiful new smile.
What are dark triangles?
Dental black triangles can be the result of:
- Genetic tooth structure
- Orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth but changes their appearance
- Gum recession
Dark triangles can have a detrimental effect on your natural smile, often lending a more aged appearance. Dr. Cain can improve your smile’s aesthetics and long-term health using this unique, modern tooth-bonding process. This process will close the open space between teeth and along the gum line with a new structure that supports your existing teeth.
Dr. Cain will use a special compound and technique that offers a greater adhesive ability for a more stable result. She carefully sculpts the heated, malleable compound to alleviate the appearance of dark triangles between teeth. The result is a natural-looking smile that is strengthened by the bonding process for a lasting outcome.
Real patients, real results
Dr. Cain worked with a recent patient to use modern tooth bonding. She replaced old bonding that was failing and not meeting her cosmetic needs. The ability to use a more malleable composite combined with Dr. Cain’s skill in the use of bonding resulted in a beautiful, stable result for this happy patient. Not only do her teeth look more uniform and healthy, but they are also healthier and more stable after the procedure.
Starting with a smile that had dark triangles due to aging and tooth wear, we first brightened her teeth with a whitening treatment. The next step was to use modern tooth bonding to close gaps and strengthen her teeth for a long-term result when compared to more traditional bonding techniques.
Dr. Cain removed the old tooth bonding material around her teeth and carefully re-sculpted her smile with a Bioclear method. The material can be highly customized to the color of a patient’s teeth. Completed in one visit, the dark spaces were closed in, and her smile was given a more youthful, symmetrical appearance.
The Dental Bonding Procedure
Tooth bonding is a type of direct restoration, similar to the dental fillings procedure. First, the tooth undergoes debridement or cleaning, and all plaque and tartar removed. Then, we apply tooth-colored composite material directly to the affected tooth. We sculpt it to match existing bite patterns and symmetry. Finally, Dr. Cain will gently polish it for virtually unnoticeable results.
Tooth bonding makes an excellent tooth-colored filling. Often called a “white filling”, these cosmetic restorations are the current standard in modern dentistry. Many patients with old metal or amalgam fillings are choosing to have their fillings replaced with white fillings. These are more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing to the eye than metal/amalgam fillings.
The composite resin used in dental bonding is bio-compatible. Resin comes in a range of tooth-colored shades for flawless matching. The resin is extremely stain-resistant and very durable. Dental bonding treatments can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Another type of dental bonding, adhesive bonding, is used to secure dental restorations to the teeth, such as dental crowns.
Tooth Bonding Before and After
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to bond a tooth?
Every patient is different. Tooth bonding is relatively inexpensive versus comparable procedures, such as porcelain veneers.
Does tooth bonding last?
Yes. Well taken care of, it can last up to 10 years. We recommend getting it checked every 3 years for repairs or replacement, depending on the bonded area.
Does tooth bonding break easily?
Not necessarily. With normal use, it won’t break easily. Trauma from a sports injury or accident can cause the bonding to break because it is not as strong as natural teeth.
Does tooth bonding hurt?
No. The procedure is painless. You will feel only “pain” from the initial anesthetic application. After the procedure, you might have some discomfort, but nothing too painful.
Does bonding ruin your teeth?
No. This will not damage the tooth as much as porcelain veneers or dental crowns. Although, bonding may require sanding the tooth a little to provide a stronger grip for the bonding material. This depends on where the affected area is located.
Is tooth bonding permanent?
Yes and no. Bonding can last a while without needing to be retouched. The actual resin is permanent, but it can chip away or crack. This is highly unlikely if taken care of with proper brushing and flossing.
How soon can you eat after tooth bonding?
Usually, one to two hours after the procedure. The resin hardens almost instantly. Dentists give you a timeframe because your mouth is still numb after the procedure. Numbness does not go away instantly, so to avoid biting your tongue or cheek, we tell you to wait at least an hour.
Can you remove tooth bonding?
Yes. Only in a dentist office can a dentist remove bonding. This is only done during retouching or in an emergency situation.
Can dental bonding fix gaps?
Yes! Dental bonding is perfect for people with gaps between their teeth but straight teeth that do not warrant braces. It’s such a quick process that you’ll be surprised why you didn’t do it sooner.
