Dental Bonding in mundelein

Dental bonding is an alternative to teeth veneers and can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored or misarranged.

How does dental bonding work?

The tooth is prepared for dental bonding by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist. Once set, the resin is trimmed, smoothed and polished to a natural appearance.

Considerations for Dental Bonding

The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit, and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding typically lasts three to five years before need of repair.

Dental Bonding vs Veneers

• Dental Bonding: A cosmetic procedure where a tooth-colored resin material is applied, shaped, and hardened directly onto the tooth.
• Veneers: Thin, custom-made shells (typically porcelain or composite) that are bonded to the front of teeth to improve appearance.

Durability

• Bonding: Typically lasts 3–10 years, depending on care and lifestyle.
• Veneers: Can last 10–20 years with proper maintenance.

Cost

• Bonding: Generally less expensive than veneers.
• Veneers: Higher cost due to the custom fabrication and longer lifespan.

Appearance

• Bonding: Matches the tooth’s natural color but may stain over time.
• Veneers: Highly stain-resistant and often look more natural due to their translucency.

Procedure

• Bonding: Non-invasive and can usually be completed in a single visit.
• Veneers: Involves more preparation, such as enamel removal, and requires at least two visits.

Applications

• Bonding: Best for small repairs like fixing chips, cracks, or minor gaps.
• Veneers: Ideal for more significant cosmetic changes, such as covering discoloration or reshaping teeth.