Cosmetic Bonding in Forest Lake
If you have a chipped tooth, small gap or one tooth that’s a little darker than the rest, that doesn’t always call for a big cosmetic change. Cosmetic bonding can be a relatively straightforward option for smaller concerns and can often be completed in one visit. Dr Paul Holliday (Dentist) has been helping local families care for their smiles for more than 30 years, and he’ll always talk through the options before anything is decided.
What Is Cosmetic Bonding?
Cosmetic bonding uses a tooth-coloured resin that’s applied directly to the tooth, carefully shaped and then polished. It may be used to improve the appearance of small chips, gaps, uneven edges or areas of discolouration.
For many patients, this treatment requires little or no removal of natural tooth structure. Unlike veneers, it generally doesn’t involve removing a layer of enamel, and it is usually reversible.
What Can This Treatment Help With?
Bonding may be considered for smaller, specific cosmetic concerns such as:
- Chipped teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Uneven or worn edges
- Minor discolouration
- Teeth that are uneven or unusually shaped
Whether this option is suitable will depend on the condition of the tooth, your bite and the change you’d like to make.
What Happens During an Appointment?
Your visit starts with a consultation so Dr Paul can examine the tooth, discuss what you’re hoping to change and select a resin shade that closely matches your surrounding teeth.
The resin is then applied and shaped before being hardened with a curing light. Dr Paul makes any final adjustments and polishes the tooth. This cosmetic treatment can often be completed in the same visit without laboratory work.
Why Choose Us for Cosmetic Bonding?
Dr Paul brings more than three decades of clinical experience along with postgraduate cosmetic dentistry training through the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.
Just as importantly, Lake Dental has been part of the Forest Lake community since 1999. If cosmetic dentistry is new territory for you, you can expect the same warm, non-judgmental approach the practice brings to everyday family dental care.
How Long Does Bonding Last?
This composite resin treatment can last for several years, although this varies from person to person. Your bite, oral habits, diet and how well you care for your teeth can all affect its lifespan. Bonding can also be repaired or touched up over time if needed. Dr Paul can give you a more individual idea of what to expect after examining the tooth.
Bonding vs Veneers: Which Is Right for You?
Bonding generally involves less tooth preparation and can often be completed sooner than veneers. It is also usually reversible.
Veneers involve more preparation of the tooth and may be considered for more extensive cosmetic changes. Neither option is automatically the better choice. Your teeth, goals and clinical needs will help determine which approach may be more appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can bonding match my natural tooth colour?
Is this cosmetic treatment covered by health insurance?
Could Bonding Be an Option for You?
If you have a chipped tooth, small gap or another minor concern you’d like to discuss, contact us today to book a consultation.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
