Dental bonding with composite resin is a versatile procedure that helps restore teeth by filling in gaps, reshaping, or recoloring your smile. A mild etching solution is applied to the teeth, creating a rough surface for the resin to bond. The resin is then applied and cured with a high-intensity light, layer by layer, until the desired shape is achieved.
The process takes longer than traditional fillings due to the multiple layers involved, usually lasting an hour to two hours. These bonded fillings are color-matched to your natural teeth, providing added strength and are suitable for small corrections, especially in front teeth. However, they may not be as durable for larger fillings.
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that aims to brighten and remove discoloration from teeth. It involves various techniques, including chemical whitening, mild acid whitening, abrasive teeth brightening, and laser teeth whitening. The process can be done in the dental office or at home, using custom-made mouth trays provided by the dentist.
Home teeth whitening typically lasts two to three weeks, and results can last for a year or more, depending on personal habits. Although not permanent, the procedure is generally effective and leaves patients satisfied with their whiter, brighter smiles.
Porcelain veneers, also known as tooth veneers, offer a smile makeover by addressing color and shape issues effectively. They are thin custom-made pieces of porcelain or plastic that are bonded to the front of teeth to correct various problems, such as discoloration, chipping, gaps, and misalignment.
Unlike crowns, veneers require minimal tooth reduction, making them a popular choice for many seeking an attractive smile. Veneers are long-lasting and stain-resistant, with a lifespan of ten to fifteen years. The attachment process involves trying in temporary veneers first to ensure a perfect fit and appearance before the final bonding with a durable adhesive. During the initial appointment, our dentist prepares the teeth by lightly buffing them and takes an impression to create custom veneers. Temporary veneers are placed and worn until the permanent ones are ready. Good communication with the dentist is essential to achieve the desired shape and size. The final attachment of the veneers involves cleansing the teeth, applying a durable bonding agent, and using a light beam to harden the adhesive for a secure and long-lasting bond. Once bonded, the color cannot be changed, so careful consideration is taken during the try-in phase to ensure satisfaction with the final result.
A crown is a dental restoration that encircles the remaining tooth structure or a dental implant. It is used when there isn’t enough healthy tooth structure to support fillings or to restore dental implants. Crowns can be made of porcelain fused to metal or entirely of ceramic materials. They are used to restore both function and appearance after procedures like root canals or extensive decay removal.
Additionally, crowns are applied for aesthetic purposes when restoring discolored or stained teeth. The process involves reducing the tooth size, taking an impression, and having a custom-designed crown made at a lab. With proper care, crowns can last for many years, requiring the same oral hygiene as natural teeth.
