Understanding Dental Bonding

Bonding, the joining of two different materials to each other, is used extensively by both general and cosmetic dentists in Denver.

There are two common types of bonding procedures, each serving a different purpose. While bonding can be used to join to surface areas, it can also be used directly on the tooth to achieve a particular effect. For example, direct bonding is used to repair a cracked tooth, or to fill in an area that has been chipped.

The method of dental bonding varies depending upon the severity of the damage or decay in the tooth. With the exception of those under eighteen, most small blemishes can be treated with direct bonding techniques.

Considerably damaged teeth on the other hand usually need a more complete restoration. This can include teeth that are not aligned, gaps between teeth, or decay that cannot be dealt with by a traditional filling. Denver dentists typically attach dental veneers surface when faced with this sort of condition. Porcelain is the usual material from which veneers are made according to the patient’s exact requirement.

Quite often a dental crown is applied to the tooth when it is too damaged to benefit from a direct bonding treatment. A dental crown is a small cover that is bonded to the remaining natural tooth and provides protection from further wear, damage and decay.

No matter what type of bonding is required, the patient needs to be sure that their Denver dentist is well skilled. A patient should ask their dentist beforehand about their experience in modern bonding techniques.

A tooth must first be totally isolated from the rest of the teeth by way of a “rubber dam” attached to it by means of a sturdy clamp. This process keeps saliva from interfering with the seal between the bonding substance and the tooth surface. Then, the tooth is “etched” with phosphoric acid to give it a rough finish to improve the bond, followed by application of resin and shaping and curing. This approach is used for fillings as well as mending techniques, and each dentist has their own particular preference. The patient should schedule a follow-up visit with their Denver dentist after the application of the bonding agent, in order to be sure the seal is complete.