Choosing bonding, veneers or another option
Bonding can suit small repairs, while veneers cover a larger front surface. A crown has a different role for a heavily damaged tooth. Alignment and gum health should also be considered before adding material.
What to ask before treatment
Ask how much tooth preparation is proposed, how the shade will be matched and whether the repair will affect your bite. Discuss staining, wear, likely maintenance and how a future chip would be repaired.
What is dental bonding?
A dentist applies a shade-matched resin to the tooth, shapes it and hardens it with a curing light. The surface is then finished and polished. Bonding may be used for small chips, minor gaps, surface irregularities or selected discoloured areas.
Why consider bonding?
Composite can often be added conservatively, keeping preparation limited. It can be repaired if damaged, and its colour can be chosen to blend with neighbouring teeth. It is less resistant to staining and wear than some ceramic restorations, so suitability matters.
The bonding process
Your dentist examines your bite and the area to be repaired, selects a shade and prepares the surface. Resin is placed in layers, shaped and cured. The final check considers the appearance, smoothness and how the teeth meet. The number of visits depends on the work required.
Aftercare and maintenance
Brush and clean between teeth, and attend the reviews recommended for you. Avoid using teeth to open packaging or bite pens. Tell your dentist about grinding or clenching. Return for assessment if the bonded area chips, feels sharp or changes the bite.
Make an informed choice.
Use this guide to prepare questions for a dental consultation. Your diagnosis, treatment suitability, number of visits and estimate depend on an individual examination. Tell the team about previous treatment, medical conditions and any concerns about comfort.
Further reading: American Dental Association · American Association of Endodontists
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