Let’s be honest – your smile isn’t perfect. At your most recent appointment with your cosmetic dentist in Richardson, you learn that you have a few cavities, and – although you hate to admit it – that chipped tooth on the side of your grin isn’t getting any less noticeable without treatment. Luckily for you, though, Dr. Melody Stampe of City Line Dental Center is here to provide you with judgement-free oral healthcare, no matter what condition your pearly whites are in. In this post, she shares the details you need to know on one of the most common cosmetic procedures – direct bonding – and how it can benefit you.

What Is Cosmetic Bonding?

Before she dives into the specific advantages of this treatment, Dr. Stampe likes to define what this actually is. Cosmetic bonding is the application of composite resin (which is a dental-grade plastic, biocompatible substance) to your teeth. It can be used in several instances, including:

• To address tooth decay
• To adjust the shape and size of teeth
• To repair chipped or fractured teeth
• To provide a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to amalgam (metal/alloy) fillings
• To improve the look of stained and discolored teeth
• To make teeth appear longer
• To fill in the gaps between teeth
• To protect the lower portion of a tooth when its root has been exposed

Many people think of composite bonding in comparison to its alternative procedure, porcelain veneers. Like veneers, some of your tooth enamel will usually be removed before the resin is applied to your teeth. But, unlike veneers (which take two appointments to fully accomplish), composite bonding can be completed in just one visit.

Is Composite Bonding Right For Me?

Direct bonding could be right for you if you’re dealing with any of the issues in the list above, and you meet the following criteria:

• You’d like a smaller-scale cosmetic change.
• The teeth you’d like to correct are in the front of your mouth, or are generally under low pressure when you bite down.
• You’d like an upgrade that removes less of your enamel than veneers.
• You’re dedicated to proper oral hygiene.
• You want a solution that is less expensive and less invasive than veneers.
• You do not grind your teeth.
• To make the most of your bonding, you’re willing to avoid foods that stain your teeth.
• You do not have complicated bite or alignment issues – in this instance, you’d probably be better suited for Invisalign from Stampe.
• You are aware that the resin can sometimes chip or be worn down like natural teeth can.
• You understand that composite bonding may not last as long as porcelain veneers.

With proper care, your smile upgrade with cosmetic bonding can last up to a decade!

Now that you know what cosmetic bonding is, and how it can give you the ideal smile you deserve, schedule your appointment with City Line Dental Center today!