Do you have minor chips and cracks in your tooth enamel? Dental bonding may be the right cosmetic dental treatment for you. Dr. E. Taylor Meiser provides patients with teeth bonding treatment in his Annapolis, MD dental office.
Tooth bonding uses a biocompatible, malleable material to cover areas of damage or discoloration. Patients with gaps between teeth, stained teeth, slightly crooked teeth, and dental injuries often benefit from bonding treatment. Dr. Meiser and his dental team help patients rebuild and renew their smiles with dental bonding.
What Are the Benefits of Teeth Bonding?
With dental bonding, we can:
- Repair tooth chips and cracks
- Fill gaps between teeth
- Address misshapen teeth
- Brighten stained or discolored teeth
Tooth bonding is also a much more economical alternative to dental veneers. Bonding is a treatment best used for tooth injuries and discoloration. Please contact our office if you have a dental injury or have sustained damage to your teeth from an accident. We can also provide emergency dental care to patients if needed.
Teeth Bonding Treatment in Annapolis, MD
In order to prepare the teeth for bonding treatment, Dr. Meiser cleans the teeth and etches into a portion of the tooth enamel. This is done to make sure that the tooth enamel is smooth enough for the bonding material.
Then, Dr. Meiser applies the dental bonding material to the tooth’s surface. Dental bonding treatment often uses a biocompatible material that can easily be sculpted onto the tooth.
Dr. Meiser ensures that the bonding material is molded into the right shape and size. He also color-matches the material to make sure that it is the same shade as adjacent natural teeth. Then, he uses a special curing light to bond the material to the tooth. Once the tooth is bonded, Dr. Meiser polishes it for a bright result.
Dental Bonding FAQs
Dental bonding can treat a wide variety of dental issues. Learn more below.
Does dental bonding hurt?
Most patients experience little to no discomfort during dental bonding. Because the procedure usually doesn’t require removing much tooth enamel, anesthesia is rarely needed unless the bonding is being used to fill a cavity. The process is gentle and non-invasive, making it ideal for those who prefer to avoid injections or drilling. You may feel some minor sensitivity afterward, but it typically fades quickly.
How long does dental bonding last?
With proper care, dental bonding can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years. Its longevity depends on factors like your oral hygiene habits, diet, and whether you grind your teeth. Avoiding habits such as biting nails or chewing hard objects can help extend the life of the bonding. Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to monitor and maintain the restoration.
Can dental bonding stain over time?
Yes, dental bonding can stain just like natural teeth, especially from foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, or tobacco. However, avoiding these stain-causing items and maintaining good oral hygiene can help preserve the appearance of your bonding. Unlike natural enamel, bonding resin cannot be whitened with bleaching treatments. If discoloration occurs, Dr. Meiser can polish or replace the bonded area to restore its brightness.
Is dental bonding suitable for children or teens?
Dental bonding is safe and effective for children and teenagers, especially for repairing chipped or broken teeth caused by accidents or sports injuries. Since it’s minimally invasive, it preserves the tooth’s natural structure. It’s also a great temporary solution until the patient’s teeth have fully developed. Parents appreciate bonding as a quick, affordable way to restore their child’s smile.
Does insurance cover dental bonding?
Insurance coverage for dental bonding depends on whether it’s performed for cosmetic or restorative purposes. If bonding is done to repair a damaged tooth or cavity, it’s often at least partially covered. However, if it’s purely for cosmetic improvement, it may not be included in your plan.
Is dental bonding right for me?
Dental bonding is a great choice if you’re looking to quickly and affordably enhance your smile. It’s ideal for patients with minor cosmetic concerns such as chips, cracks, or small gaps. However, if you have extensive damage or bite issues, other treatments like veneers or crowns may be more suitable. Dr. Meiser can evaluate your needs and recommend the best solution during your consultation.
Schedule a Dental Appointment
Do you have a chipped tooth? Are you looking for an easy way to add shape and structure to an injured tooth? Call Lighthouse Family Dentistry for easy and efficient dental bonding treatment today at 410-324-7287. Feel free to also request a dental consultation with Dr. Meiser online.