Portland Dental Teeth Bonding

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that is performed right in the office and is typically completed in one visit. The bonding is a resin material that mimics the color of your surrounding teeth. It helps to improve the appearance of teeth that have become stained, chipped or excessively decayed. In some cases, it can also be used to fill in a gap between two teeth. This procedure is non-invasive and a favorite way of many of Dougherty Dental’s patients as it is an effective way to enhance the appearance of teeth in a short amount of time.

What to Expect

Dental bonding is a very simple procedure that very rarely requires any type of anesthesia. In order to prepare your tooth or teeth for the bonding, the surface of the tooth is “roughened up” a bit with an abrasive material to give the bonding something to adhere to upon application. Once the tooth has been prepared, a conditioning liquid is applied to further the adherence of the resin.

The bond itself is like putty that is shaped on your tooth. The dentist will mold the resin until it is the exact shape and size that fits well in your mouth and blends with the other teeth. Once the material has the appropriate shape and size, it is hardened with an ultraviolet light. After the material is hardened, if it is necessary, further shaping will take place to ensure an exact match to your surrounding teeth. The entire process is typically completed within an hour, allowing you to leave with a straighter and whiter smile!

Caring for Dental Bonding

The first 48 hours after you receive dental bonding in our office, it will be necessary to avoid the consumption of food and drink that can stain the bonding material. This includes tea, coffee, red wine, soda and dark colored berries. Care should also be taken to avoid excessive hard foods, as the resin is not fully set for 48-hours, which could mean that they could chip if you were to bite something that was too hard. In addition, it is important to refrain from smoking during that time as the tobacco can easily stain the resin.

The Advantages of Teeth Bonding

Many patients choose dental bonding because of its ease of application and minimal upkeep requirements. It is an effective way to fix minor cosmetic issues or to cover an area that has been affected by tooth decay without bringing attention to the area. The process is painless, inexpensive and fast, making it a choice of many patients.

Call Us For Questions About Teeth Bonding

If you are around Portland, OR and have any questions about your ability to receive dental bonding to straighten, whiten or cover up tiny cracks or fractures in your teeth, please feel free to call our office at 503-334-1141. Our staff is happy to answer any questions and help you determine if dental bonding is the right cosmetic dental procedure for you. Call us today to make an appointment!