When teeth are discolored, worn down, or misaligned, there are multiple options for correcting the existing condition to create a more beautiful smile. One option is Bonding, which is similar to Porcelain Veneers but can be much more conservative and cost-effective. This procedure is done in one visit (as opposed to 2 visits for veneers) and uses a plastic filling material selected to match the desired tooth color. Depending on its location and size, it may not last as long as a Porcelain Veneer, however, in many cases, it can be less invasive, less expensive, as well as a good trial period before proceeding to something less reversible like Porcelain Veneers. If any of your teeth look like any of the cases below, and you want a change, contact us today. Hasn’t your smile waited long enough?
Sample Cases Performed
Diastema Closure
Some people have a gap between their front teeth and this is called a Diastema. For some, this is an ethnic trait that suits them. For others, it is an undesired feature. For this patient, the diastema was partially resulting from undersized central incisors (front two teeth) lending this to be a perfect candidate for bonding. This case could also have been treated with Invisalign braces to close the space, but finances were an issue at the time. One of the nice things about the bonding approach was it did not involve the removal of any tooth structure which keeps this procedure reversible, and orthodontics as an option for the future.
Developmental Staining
Many people have discolored teeth, and in some cases, this is the way the teeth developed. Discolorations can happen as a result of trauma during tooth development, certain antibiotics like Tetracycline, or from fluoride ingestion during early tooth development. In this case, the patient had a dark developmental stain in her tooth that she wanted to be removed, but did not want anything too expensive or invasive done. With a little drilling to remove the stained tooth structure and placement of a white filling, resin bonding did the trick. With a little bit of work, the result is a very happy patient.
