Dental Bonding Las Vegas
Las Vegas dental bonding is the act of applying a color-matched resin to a damaged tooth. The resin is hardened using specialized lights and “bonds” to the tooth. In Las Vegas, tooth bonding is a common procedure, but it is important to choose the right dentist in order to be happy with your smile.
When Does A Tooth Require Bonding?
A tooth can become damaged through decay or by accident. It is considered to be a cosmetic procedure because it improves a person’s smile but it is one of the fastest and least expensive cosmetic dental procedures available.
Reasons Dr. Khorshid may recommend dental bonding include:
- When a tooth is cracked or chipped
- To repair decay (filling a cavity)
- Repair a discolored tooth
- Close a gap between teeth
- Protect teeth that are exposed from receding gums
- Repair a misshapen tooth
- Make teeth look longer
- An alternative to amalgam fillings which are not tooth-colored
If you have any of these issues, Dr. Khorshid will conduct a full dental examination before determining whether or not tooth bonding is the right course of treatment.
Advantages Of Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is easy, fast and relatively inexpensive. It is an excellent choice for fixing small cosmetic issues affecting one or two teeth. Bonding is done entirely in the dentist’s office – nothing needs to be sent out to a lab, so it is more convenient than crowns or veneers. Unlike other cosmetic procedures, very little enamel is removed during bonding, which helps to protect the integrity and sensitivity of the tooth.
The process usually does not require any anesthesia or numbing agents, which makes it a great choice for people who have fears or anxieties about dental treatments.
How Does Bonding Work?
Tooth bonding can be done in one office visit, though a second visit may be required if several teeth are in need of repair. First, the bonding will be shaded to match the rest of your teeth. Once the shade has been chosen, the tooth will be etched, which means the doctor will roughen the surface of the tooth to give the resin a surface to stick to. Etching is a quick and painless process usually completed with a special liquid. Then an adhesive will be applied as well as the resin material. Dr. Khorshid will then shape the material to make it look natural. Finally, a UV light will be used to cure (harden) the bonding.
Once the bonding has hardened, Dr. Khorshid may need to continue shaping it to get the best look possible. After he is satisfied, he will polish the tooth to a shiny finish.
The entire process of dental bonding does not take very long, so patients can expect to be in the office for 30 minutes to an hour to bond one tooth.
Caring For Bonded Teeth
With proper care, bonding can last up to ten years before it needs to be replaced. You care for bonded teeth in the same way you care for your other teeth – by brushing and flossing twice a day and visiting the dentist every six months. Patients should avoid tobacco as well as food or drink that cause stains for at least 48 hours after a dental bonding procedure.
Though bonding is strong, patients should take care not to bite overly hard or sticky foods on the bonded tooth. By the Way, You should call the Las Vegas office of ABC Dental Care immediately if you notice sharp edges, chipping or breaks, or if you are having any pain or odd sensations in the area of your bonded teeth.
