Dental bonding is one of the most commonly used dental procedures and owing to its simplicity can transform your teeth and smile in just a single visit. The composite resin can be mixed to closely match the colour of each individual patient’s teeth and can be used of a variety of dental processes. It can be used to repair chipped and cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth and reshape teeth.
More commonly though, dental bonding is used to fill dental cavities and replace existing amalgam fillings. Dental bonding is a popular choice for fillings because the versatile paste can be made to match the colour and consistency of each patient’s teeth. This natural colour provides much more aesthetically pleasing results than the old amalgam fillings, which can look unseemly in the mouth, especially when smiling or laughing. Many dentists replace amalgam fillings as a matter of course due to the controversy over mercury vapours entering the body. When old fillings are removed, dentists use a rubber dam to isolate the other teeth because of the levels of mercury agitated during removal.
White fillings are ideal for small cavities but lack the integral strength to fill large cavities. In these cases dentists are turning more and more to CEREC technology, where ceramic filling inlays can be manufactured to microscopic levels of accuracy.
The process of using a white filling for a cavity may require anaesthetic, depending on the circumstances some procedures will not. Making sure the area is clear from all tartar and debris for adhesion purposes, the dentist will roughen the surface of the tooth with acid-gel to allow for added grip. The bonding is then applied to the tooth and moulded to the desired shape. The resin is then hardened using the intense heat of a laser before being polished smooth to match the rest of the tooth. For larger cavities, several thin layers of bonding are applied to make sure it has all hardened correctly.
White fillings may not be as durable as amalgam fillings, but require far less structural damage to the tooth to fit and produce a much aesthetic appearance. A Kirby dentist will be able to further explain the benefits of white fillings and carry out any work you may require. You will also be able to talk to them about the dangers of amalgam fillings and the possibility of replacing any you may have.
Do not let that stained, cracked or chipped teeth destroy your self-esteem and ruin your life forever. Dental bonding is the answer to your problem. The procedure is recommended not only to repair physical damage but also hereditary flaws and structural damage caused by decay.