Fix Gaps Between Teeth with Dental Bonding
Gaps in the teeth can be fixed with orthodontic treatment, crowns, veneers, or even dental bonding. Dental bonding is an option many patients choose for its immediate results and low cost, beneficial for patients who do not have the time or the financial means for long, orthodontic treatment.
Dental Bonding for Diastemas
A diastema is simply a gap in the teeth. Dental bonding can be applied to the surface between each tooth to close the gap. Composite bonding is a non-invasive fix that does not require the loss of tooth structure!
To begin, your dentist will make sure there is no decay in the area being treated. If there is, they will remove the decay then clean and dry the teeth. An acid etching material is then brushed on to give the composite a rough surface to adhere to. The composite material is then applied, shaped, and cured with an ultraviolet light. Finally, they will refine the shape and polish the area to a natural finish.
Who is a candidate for dental bonding?
Patients with a small gap between their teeth can benefit from dental bonding but those with severe spacing and crooked teeth or malocclusion would be best served with complete orthodontic treatment. Composite bonding can fix a lot of dental maladies with minimal time and often for a lower price tag. Bonding is also excellent for achieving great results immediately, so patients that have a pressing engagement should consider bonding.
Dental bonding can also be removed without affecting the original tooth structure so in the event that you eventually want to receive orthodontic treatment, dental bonding will not negatively affect your results.
How do I know if dental bonding is right for me?
Dental bonding can be a great option to quickly fix gaps in your teeth but it is important to remember that while bonding is incredibly strong, it is not as durable as porcelain. Composite bonding is also susceptible to staining so patients who regularly consume coffee and red wine or tobacco products may be better served with porcelain restorations.
Financially, bonding is significantly less costly than porcelain veneers but will need to be repaired and replaced much more frequently. Bonding may last a few years for some while others need to have it repaired every couple of months. In the long run, porcelain veneers can be more cost-effective than constantly paying for repairs and replacement of bonding.
A night guard can greatly increase the longevity of dental bonding as a lot of chips can happen during the unconscious clenching and grinding we do in our sleep. A night guard acts as a buffer and can protect composite and porcelain restorations as well as natural teeth.