What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure where tooth-colored composite resin is applied to teeth to improve their appearance.

Bonding can fix: - Chipped or cracked teeth - Gaps between teeth - Discolored teeth - Misshapen teeth - Exposed tooth roots - Short teeth

The bonding process: 1. Shade matching to your teeth 2. Tooth surface lightly etched 3. Bonding agent applied 4. Resin sculpted to desired shape 5. Hardened with special light 6. Polished to natural finish

Completed in one visit (30-60 minutes per tooth)

Bonding vs. Veneers: - Bonding: Less expensive, same day, less durable (5-7 years) - Veneers: More expensive, 2 visits, more durable (10-15 years)

Best candidates for bonding: - Minor cosmetic improvements - Budget-conscious patients - Patients wanting quick results - Young patients (preserve tooth for later veneers)

Bonding is an excellent option for minor cosmetic fixes. For more dramatic changes, veneers may be recommended.