Chips, cracks, and stains are common cosmetic dental defects that can detract from the beauty of a person’s smile. Thankfully, direct bonding is a painless and noninvasive treatment that can address these issues in minutes during a routine dental appointment. However, you may not be aware of how this versatile treatment can often address issues like gaps and misshapenness as well. Here’s a brief guide to how direct bonding works and how it can be used to reshape teeth.
Should I Be Worried About the Gap in My Smile?
In some cases, an especially wide gap can leave the gum tissue between the teeth vulnerable to injuries caused by food debris. However, most dental gaps don’t represent a significant threat to your oral health, and some people even find these spaces cute or endearing. In most cases, a person may want to close a gap simply as a matter of preference. While the ideal way to fix gaps is through orthodontic treatment like Invisalign in many cases, direct bonding can provide a convenient solution for minor spacing issues.
How Does Direct Bonding Work?
Once you are approved for direct bonding, your dentist will begin the process by applying a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth being treated. They will then sculpt this putty-like substance so it covers or fills in the targeted defect while matching the natural curves of your tooth. Once the resin is properly shaped, your dentist will treat it with a specialized UV light to harden it, resulting in a durable and lifelike restoration that can last for several years with proper care.
To address gaps in your smile, your dentist will apply the composite resin to the edge of one or both of the teeth that borders the gap and shape it to expand its width. This can quickly resolve a troublesome space in a grin without any alteration of existing dental tissue.
Direct bonding is a quick and completely noninvasive process that usually requires no anesthesia, so you can expect to be able to drive yourself home afterward without any problems. This procedure is also nondestructive to the enamel, which makes almost anyone with healthy teeth and gums a suitable candidate for the treatment. Consulting with your dentist can help you find out if direct bonding is a suitable treatment for you.
About the Practice
Gentle Dentistry Sparta offers the finest oral health services in town. Led by Drs. Zelia Cannon and James Shahinian, the staff ensures that each patient enjoys excellent service in a warm and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as dental bonding. To book your cosmetic dental consultation, contact the office online or dial (973) 729-9044.