Dental Bonding in Los Altos, CA
Tooth bonding, or dental bonding, is a simple treatment that is typically used to address minimal cosmetic dentistry concerns. To give our patients the most natural-looking, durable result, we use a composite resin material that can be molded and color-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. As a health-centered dentistry practice, our goal is to restore beauty as well as function to your smile.
Dental bonding can give your smile subtle, yet very noticeable enhancements. This cosmetic treatment can change the shape, color, and position of your teeth to improve the appearance of your natural smile.
If you are looking for a solution to address any of these imperfections, dental bonding can be implemented to:
- Fix minor gaps or spaces between the teeth
- Address stained or discolored teeth
- Fix the appearance of chipped or cracked teeth
- Restore misshapen teeth
In some cases, bonding can also be used to treat complex dental issues like extensive fractures and tooth decay. Dr. Schweifler will examine your smile and determine if dental bonding is the right solution for your smile.
Dental bonding often requires little to no tooth preparation, making it one of the most conservative methods for improving the esthetic of your smile. It can be completed during one visit to our Los Altos dentist office.
Your experience is important to Dr. Schweifler and our dental care team, so from the moment you walk through our doors, we work with you to ensure you are safe, comfortable, and fully informed on all aspects of your care. The dental bonding procedure is a simple in-office treatment that is typically performed without an anesthetic.
We perform the bonding process as conservatively as possible; most of the natural tooth structure remains intact and undisturbed. However, every case is different; Dr. Schweifler makes personalized recommendations and creates treatment plans that are designed with your best interest in mind.
What To Expect During The Dental Bonding Process
To begin, the affected tooth is carefully cleaned and prepared for bonding. A solution is applied to the tooth to create an appropriate bonding surface for the composite resin. After the tooth is prepared, the tooth-colored resin is generously applied to the tooth, where it is shaped and molded until the desired aesthetic is reached.
Once a natural-looking result is achieved, the tooth-colored resin is hardened into place using a special dental light. The bonded tooth is smoothed and polished to reveal a natural luster.
You can enjoy your new smile immediately after your appointment. To maintain your results, it is imperative that you practice the best dentistry practices and avoid harmful habits that may damage your teeth. Although composite resin is a durable, natural-looking material, it is not as strong as your enamel, so habits like nail biting can damage your bonded tooth.
Why Choose Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is one of the most accessible dental restoration options. It’s one of the few treatment options that’s completely reversible. If you decide you no longer want your dental bonding, we can remove it for you. This makes it something that even a child can get to treat a chipped or broken tooth. It’s still a durable form of treatment, too. While it isn’t permanent, it lasts for years, especially if you take good care of it.
Dental bonding is one of the most affordable options as well. Because it’s a temporary, simple solution, it doesn’t cost as much. Porcelain veneers and other restorations need to be crafted in a special laboratory. Dental bonding can be done in one simple visit to our dentist office. We don’t need to prepare the tooth extensively, either. The dental bonding process is quick and painless.
Dental Bonding FAQs
Is dental bonding better than dental veneers?
The real question is which is better for your unique situation. Dental bonding and dental veneers can be used for mostly the same purposes, but vary in price and longevity. Dental bonding is more of a temporary fix for your issues while you decide on a permanent restoration. Whereas dental veneers are a permanent fix to most cosmetic dental issues. We will help you determine which is best for you during your dental exam.
Can I use dental bonding to fix a crooked smile?
Yes, to a certain extent. Adult patients can use dental bonding instead of braces to cosmetically fix a single crooked tooth or two. Teens are better off getting orthodontic services, such as Invisalign, to correct their crooked teeth. It all depends on the results you are looking for, and if your issue is a cosmetic or restorative one.
Is tooth bonding permanent?
No, while bonding is an excellent solution for a range of cosmetic dental issues, this solution is not permanent. However, with proper care, your bonded tooth can last many years. If you opt for a more permanent solution in the future, Dr. Schweifler can work with you and explore your options during a visit to our Los Altos, CA dental office.