Revitalize Your Smile: Dental Bonding vs. Other Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

Posted on 15 May 2023

Cosmetic dentistry is increasingly popular as advanced dental techniques and new materials have become available and affordable. If you have cracked, stained or crooked teeth spoiling your smile, it's now possible to fix these issues. 

There are a wide range of procedures designed to solve various dental problems. A dentist who is experienced in cosmetic dentistry will be able to assess your situation to find the best solution to help you create your ideal smile. 

Your cosmetic dentist will examine your teeth, gums and check your oral health. This usually involves taking dental X-rays too. If your dentist discovers gum disease or serious decay, they may need to treat these issues prior to commencing any cosmetic dentistry. 

Here are a few cosmetic options that your dentist may discuss depending on what you hope to achieve or what your dental issue is:

Dental bonding

Also known as teeth bonding, dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can resolve a wide range of issues. 

It involves the application of composite resin to the surface of the tooth. It is then shaped, cured and polished. Dental bonding can cover a cracked, chipped or discoloured tooth or entire row. It can also be used to change the shape or appearance of a tooth. 

This treatment is becoming very popular as it is a relatively inexpensive, fast and pain-free procedure. However, some people may experience a little temporary sensitivity after treatment. 

As the procedure does not require extensive removal of enamel, it is also reversible. Dental bonding is not as hard-wearing or stain resistant as dental veneers but can be ideal for fixing minor imperfections quickly and easily.

Dental veneers

Like dental bonding, veneers are used to cover the surface of a tooth to improve the appearance of your smile. 

Veneers are custom-made from composite or porcelain material and are permanently bonded to the surface of the tooth. This provides a tougher, longer-lasting result but the procedure is not reversible. 

Your cosmetic dentist will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of veneers and dental bonding with you. They will consider the dental issues that you have to help you make the best choice for transforming your smile effectively.

Whitening treatments

A Hollywood smile with bright white teeth is easily achievable. Teeth can be professionally whitened to remove stains or improve the appearance of discoloured teeth.

Dental crowns

A badly damaged tooth can have a cosmetic dental crown. Custom-made 'caps' made from porcelain or acrylic are used to cover and protect the whole tooth. The tooth colour will be chosen to blend in naturally with the rest. 

Dental implants

A dental implant provides a permanent replacement for a missing tooth. A titanium post is inserted into the jawbone and a dental crown is fixed on top. Dental implants can also support a bridge to replace more than one tooth.

Orthodontic treatments

These include Invisalign and various types of braces. They are used for a variety of reasons such as correcting gapped, crooked or crowded teeth. Many of the new braces and retainers are far more discreet than the traditional braces used in the past and are suitable for adults too.

Once you have had a cosmetic dental procedure, it's important to follow your dentist's advice after treatment. You will need to maintain your new smile by brushing twice a day and flossing too. 

While the new materials are resilient, staining can still occur so quit smoking and be aware that tea, coffee and red wine can still stain your teeth. 

Regular check-ups are also required so that your dentist can monitor your dental health and check when further treatments like professional whitening are needed. They will also check if crowns, bonding material or veneers need attention or replacement. Dental bonding, for example, can last for 3-10 years before requiring attention.

There really is no need to hide your smile anymore. If you are self-conscious about the appearance of your teeth, there are now a wide range of solutions to solve your particular dental issue. Cosmetic dentistry can change your smile and your confidence.

Further reading:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10922-dental-bonding#:~:text=Dental%20bonding%20is%20a%20cosmetic,and%20color%20of%20a%20tooth 

https://www.verywellhealth.com/different-types-of-cosmetic-dental-procedures-1059022