Tooth Bonding New Bern, NC

Cosmetic Bonding An Overview

Dr. Stephen Hoard is a cosmetic dentist in New Bern, North Carolina. Dr. Hoard offers tooth bonding to correct minor cosmetic dental concerns such as spaces and gaps between teeth, chipped teeth, of stained teeth. Tooth bonding is a fast, affordable treatment that is usually completed in a single visit to our New Bern dentist office.

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied and hardened with a special UV light. The material is bonded to the tooth to restore or improve your smile aesthetics.

Is Tooth Bonding Right For You?

Dental bonding is a quick and affordable cosmetic dentistry treatment that can be used to:

  • Repair chipped or cracked teeth
  • Improve the appearance of discolored teeth
  • Close spaces between teeth
  • Make teeth look longer
  • Improve the shape of teeth

"Not only do my teeth look great, they feel fantastic. I would not trade my experience with Dr. Hoard and his staff for anything in the world."

Smoke

Cosmetic Bonding What to Expect

Minimal tooth preparation is needed for a dental bonding procedure. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. Dr. Hoard will select a composite resin color that will closely match the color of your natural teeth for virtually unnoticeable treatment.

The procedure begins with a thorough dental exam and cleaning. The next step is to prepare your tooth. The surface of your tooth will be slightly abraded, and a conditioning liquid will be applied, to help the bonding resin adhere to the tooth. The tooth-colored, puttylike resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape.

The material is hardened by an ultraviolet light or dental laser. Once the composite has cured, Dr. Hoard will trim, shape, and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.

A dental bonding procedure is usually completed in a single visit and take less than an hour to complete.

Cosmetic Bonding FAQs

Do teeth that have been bonded require special care?

No. Simply follow good oral hygiene practices brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss at least once a day, and see your dentist for regular professional checkups and cleanings.

How long does bonding material last?

Typically, bonding material lasts from 3 to about 10 years before it needs to be touched up or replaced, depending on the amount of bonding was used, and your oral habits. If you want a more long-lasting solution, Dr. Hoard may recommend porcelain veneers or dental crowns to reinforce your tooth and restore proper function for a longer period of time.

Is tooth bonding permanent?

No. Tooth bonding is reversible and repairable. Bonding material can chip and crack. It is important to avoid habits such as biting fingernails, chewing on pens, ice, or other hard food objects, or using your bonded teeth as an opener. Call your dentist if you notice any sharp edges on a bonded tooth, any chips or pieces falling off, or if your tooth feels odd when you bite down.

Can my dentist remove tooth bonding?

Yes, your dentist can remove tooth bonding. The process involves using a drill and/or a laser to remove the bonding material from the tooth. It’s important to note that only a dentist should perform this procedure to avoid damaging the tooth structure. If you’re unhappy with your tooth bonding, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss your options.

Is a dental bonding procedure painful?

Dental bonding is usually not a painful procedure. In fact, the treatment does not require anesthesia unless the dentist uses it to fill a decayed tooth. However, some patients might experience slight discomfort or sensitivity during or after the procedure. This is normally temporary and subsides within a few days. If you have concerns about pain, discuss them with your dentist.

Can tooth bonding be done in a single visit to the dentist?

One of the advantages of tooth bonding is that the dentist can usually complete the procedure in a single visit. The treatment usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. This is because the procedure usually does not require customization in a dental laboratory, unlike veneers or crowns. However, if you’re having several teeth done, you may have to schedule additional appointments.