How Does Tooth Bonding Fix Your Smile?

When you chip or break a tooth, repair is needed to avoid the onset of complications, such as tooth decay or infections. Fortunately, we can fix your tooth in a single visit. How does tooth bonding fix your tooth? What does the procedure involve?

Try Our Quiz on Tooth Bonding

  1. True or False: We can fix chipped teeth.
  2. True or False: Placement only takes one visit.
  3. True or False: We can color-match your tooth.
  4. True or False: We may also perform a contouring procedure.

Answer Key

  1. True. We can use the procedure to fix chipped teeth, close any gaps between teeth, or address issues with the shape or surface of the teeth. We can also mask permanent teeth stains. Also known as intrinsic teeth stains, these form below the enamel and may be difficult for traditional teeth whitening to tackle.
  2. True. We first clean the tooth and then gently etch the surface. We prepare the composite resin and apply it in multiple layers. The etching helps the material better adhere to the tooth. As we cure the composite resin under a light, we can sculpt and mold the tooth. Finally, we complete the procedure by thoroughly polishing the tooth, creating a more natural appearance.
  3. True. To ensure the bonding material blends with your smile, we actually color-match the material. We do the same for our tooth-colored fillings, which use the same material.
  4. True. For teeth with pits or grooves in the surface, or ones that are overly pointed, we may recommend contouring. This procedure involves gently buffing away small amounts of tooth structure to reshape the tooth. We can complete this in one visit, and often in the same visit as your bonding procedure.