Dental Bonding

Bonding is a conservative way to repair slightly chipped, discolored, or crooked teeth. During dental bonding, a white filling is placed onto your tooth to improve its appearance. The filling "bonds" with your teeth, and because it comes in a variety of tooth-colored shades, it closely matches the appearance of your natural teeth.

How Bonding Works

The bonding procedure typically requires only one visit. Dr. Thietten selects a composite resin that closely matches the color of your natural teeth. The tooth surface is gently roughened, a conditioning liquid is applied, and the resin is shaped directly onto the tooth. A special light hardens the material, and the tooth is then polished to match the sheen of your surrounding teeth.

Bonding for Fillings

Tooth bonding can also be used for teeth fillings instead of amalgam fillings. Many patients prefer bonding fillings because the white color is much less noticeable than the silver amalgam fillings. Bonding fillings can be used on front and back teeth depending on the location and extent of the tooth decay.

Benefits of Dental Bonding

• Completed in a single visit
• Minimal tooth preparation required
• Natural-looking tooth-colored results
• More conservative than veneers or crowns
• Can repair chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration

Bonding is an excellent option for minor cosmetic improvements. For more extensive changes, Dr. Thietten may recommend veneers or other cosmetic treatments.