Bonding
is a method of repairing minor imperfections, such as chipped, cracked
or stained teeth. It can also be used to repair misaligned teeth or
correct gaps between teeth. The tooth surface is rebuilt with tooth-colored
bonding material. The final result is a pleasing, natural looking restoration.
Composite
Materials
There are two types of materials used for bonding; composites and
porcelain. Composite materials are a mixture of acrylic resin (plastic
compound) and finely ground glass particles. Composite restorations
are less expensive than porcelain, but more expensive than silver fillings.
When
you choose composite materials, your dentist prepares the tooth
with an etching solution. Then the composite materials are mixed
to match the color of your teeth. These materials are applied to
your teeth and shaped by the dentist. The material is then hardened
with a light source. The result is a restored tooth that has the
appearance of your own teeth, which can normally be accomplished
in just one office visit.
Composite
materials are often used on the front teeth, or for smaller fillings
on the back teeth (see our tooth-colored
fillings page).
They are similar in color to the tooth color, but may stain or discolor
over time. Especially on chewing surfaces, composite materials wear
out more quickly than silver fillings or porcelain.
Porcelain
Restorations
Porcelain is a glass-like material that is prepared in a mold by
a dental laboratory. The final preparation is heated in a furnace to
harden the material. Because at least two office visits and outside
laboratory services are used, porcelain restorations are more expensive
than composite materials or silver fillings.
Porcelain
restorations require two or more office visits. During the first
visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth and make an impression
of the area that is being restored. Temporary material may be placed
in the tooth. The impression is then sent to a dental laboratory,
where the porcelain restoration is custom-made. At the second visit,
your dentist will cement (or bond) the restoration to your tooth,
and make any needed adjustments.
Porcelain
is a desirable material for restorations because the color and translucency
mimics natural tooth enamel. It is highly resistant to wear; however,
porcelain can fracture under tension or impact. It is also resistant
to staining and discoloration.
Whether
you choose composite or porcelain materials, your smile will be
enhanced, and become more natural looking.
Contact
our office today to arrange a consultation about your smile.
For
more information on related topics from the American Dental Association click
the following links:
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