Bonding
Bonding is a conservative approach to repairing tooth structure. It adds to existing or missing structures for restorative or cosmetic purposes. The bonding process is very technique sensitive procedure, but when done well, it can closely replicate natural tooth structure.
Some times bonding is used in place of porcelain restorations. At other times we use bonding to change the shape and color of teeth.
Bonding
Bonding refers to a restoration that is directly applied to a tooth. Bonding is very conservative, used to add to chipped or damaged tooth structure and can be a less expensive cosmetic procedure.
The composite used is a tooth colored material made of a resin and powdered porcelain mixture.
We use composites that do not contain Bis-GMA and brands that are more respected for quality. The process is very technical, however, when expertly used, can nearly rival results seen in more expensive procedures. As an art major, Dr. Stange pays close attention to the detailed shape of the tooth to be modified. We can blend seamlessly to a single tooth or we can change the color entirely. At times, the patient may bleach their teeth whiter so as to improve the overall appearance of the teeth. Bonding can be quite beautiful and can be used as a cosmetic procedure, such as a veneer to the tooth/teeth.
Color matching and blending is important with bonding, as the goal is to not be able to tell when this procedure has been completed. The goal is to seem as if nothing has been done at all.
At times, we are asked to close spaces between teeth after orthodontic treatments. This is referred to as diastema closure. Many times this is an alternative to porcelain veneers in younger adolescents to hold spaces until porcelain veneers can be completed.
The largest negative concern for composite bonding is longevity. Bonding is really just filling material that is more aesthetic than that of routine filling materials. Though it can last for many years, it is not a strong as laboratory created porcelain and can chip off or discolor in time.
One of the best factors in favor of bonding is that the procedure is completed the same day, within an hour or two, so the gratifying results are nearly immediate.