Living with gaps between your teeth may cause you to feel embarrassed or concerned about your smile. While orthodontics is generally recommended when it comes to treating this type of issue, there is an alternative approach – one that is more conservative and affordable – dental bonding. Keep reading to find out how this cosmetic approach can deliver lifelike, beautiful results.
What is Required to Fix Gaps with Dental Bonding?
To determine if you are a good candidate for dental bonding, your dentist must first evaluate your oral and overall health. Depending on the size of the gap between your teeth, you may or may not be eligible for this type of treatment.
Generally, larger gaps can only be closed with the help of orthodontics; however, if the space is minor, composite resin can be enough to conceal the area and reveal a seamless smile.
It’s also necessary, though, that your teeth be healthy and in good shape. If you’re suffering from tooth decay, your dentist will need to administer appropriate restorative care to improve the state of your smile before applying dental bonding.
How is Dental Bonding Applied?
The process of receiving dental bonding can be completed in a single appointment, making it a convenient option for all patients.
When meeting with your cosmetic dentist, they will give your teeth a thorough cleaning before using a shade guide to select the desired color of the composite resin. Once this is chosen, they will gently etch the surface of the tooth so that the resin bonds with your enamel. They will then apply the resin to the surface of your tooth and sculpt it so that it hides the gap and creates an even and balanced smile.
A curing light is then used to harden the resin in place.
When choosing how to fill the gap in your smile, don’t assume that costly braces are the only way. Talk to your cosmetic dentist to find out if a faster, more conservative, and more affordable option is available. You may not realize it, but you could walk out of your dentist’s office in about an hour with a new and improved appearance.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Aziz is a trusted dentist in Frederick with more than a decade of proven experience helping patients take back their oral health. With a dental degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and advanced training in various specialties, he and the team at My Frederick Dentist are happy to provide cosmetic solutions like dental bonding as an alternative to orthodontic treatment. If you would like to find out if you can close the gaps in your smile without braces, visit our website or call (301) 698-9552.