Our Services Bonding & Cosmetic Resins

Bonding & Composite Resins Explained

Bonding of composite resins is ideal for small corrections, in which most of the tooth is healthy and stable. It can be used to correct a wide variety of problems, including minor decay, chips, cracks, gaps between teeth, discoloration and crooked teeth. 

Composite resins are a more esthetically-pleasing alternative to metal fillings or restorations. They have similar characteristics to a tooth's natural enamel, and their color can be adjusted to match the particular color of your teeth.

Bonding is a minimally-invasive procedure that can provide astounding improvements in the appearance of your teeth. 

Procedure

Dental bonding procedures can usually be completed in one or two office visits. For minor cosmetic alterations, the resin can be matched to your teeth while you are in the office. To begin, the tooth is anesthetized if needed and any problematic tooth structure is carefully removed. Dr. Hendrix always takes extreme care to remove only that tooth structure which must be removed. During the bonding procedure, a mild etching solution is first applied to the area of natural tooth enamel to receive the restoration. This solution roughens the surface which allows for a stronger bond between the tooth and resin. An adhesive is then placed on the tooth. This adhesive is actually what bonds the composite resin to the tooth. Next, the resin is placed on the tooth and treated with ultraviolet light which activates the curing of the resin. The resin is then sculpted to the desired shape and polished. 

For more extensive alterations, an impression of the area needs to be taken and sent to a lab, where the final restoration will be constructed. Dr. Hendrix usually recommends that larger restorations or areas of high esthetic demands be restored with porcelain, rather than composite resin, through procedures such as crowns and veneers. In these cases the porcelain restoration is bonded to the teeth on a second visit.