The Many Benefits of Dental Bonding

If you want to improve your smile, dental bonding offers a safe and effective way to repair damaged or discolored teeth, improve misshapen teeth, and even close gaps between teeth. This simple treatment can give you a better smile after just one office visit.

Robert F. Wilcox, DMD, in Butte, Montana, offers a range of treatments to give you the best smile possible, including dental bonding. Take a moment to learn more about dental bonding and the many benefits this outpatient procedure provides.

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a simple procedure that improves the appearance and/or health of your teeth. Dr. Wilcox uses a tooth-colored composite resin that blends in with the color of your natural teeth. 

During dental bonding, Dr. Wilcox roughens the enamel of the teeth he’s treating. He then applies the resin to your teeth, molding it to the desired shape. 

Using a special ultraviolet light, he helps the material bond to your tooth’s enamel. Once the resin is dry, he finishes shaping and trimming the resin. Finally, Dr. Wilcox polishes the resin to match the natural finish of your teeth. 

What are the benefits of dental bonding?

One major benefit of dental bonding is its ability to correct multiple dental issues, including:

• Restoring chipped or cracked teeth
• Treating cavities with tooth-colored fillings
• Covering permanently stained teeth
• Protecting exposed dental roots
• Filling in gaps between your teeth

Dental bonding is also more affordable than many other cosmetic dental treatments. This economical technique allows Dr. Wilcox to restore function to your teeth while improving the appearance of your smile. 

And dental bonding is fast and easy. It takes Dr. Wilcox less than an hour to complete most dental bonding procedures. 

Dental bonding doesn’t usually require multiple trips to the office. Extensive corrections may require additional visits, but most of our patients only need one visit to complete treatment. 

Is it easy to care for bonded teeth?

After your teeth are bonded, you should care for them the right way. The good news is that caring for bonded teeth is easy.

Dr. Wilcox provides personalized instructions to help you get the most out of your bonded teeth. You should avoid foods and beverages that stain for at least two days after your procedure. 

Some best practices for extending the life of your bonded teeth include:

• Regular brushing and flossing (at least twice a day)
• Rinsing after eating or drinking acidic foods or beverages (e.g., orange juice, tomatoes)
• Not biting your nails or other hard objects (e.g., ice)
• Avoiding hard candies and foods
• Wearing a mouthguard during sports
• Having regular dental cleanings

You should also schedule an appointment with Dr. Wilcox if you notice a chip or break in the bonded tooth. 

Are you ready to improve your smile and want to learn more about dental bonding or other cosmetic dental treatments? Schedule an appointment at the private practice of Dr. Wilcox in Butte, Montana.