In the field of cosmetic dentistry, structural imperfections are repaired through a process called dental bonding. It is also called tooth or composite bonding. The replacements attach to your own teeth individually and are called composite veneers.

Dental bonding can repair chipped, cracked or discolored teeth, and can replace silver fillings for a natural look. Misaligned teeth can be corrected by this technique, giving a patient a smile he or she no longer needs to hide or minimize.

The bonding agents can also be applied to those teeth that show mostly prominently when you smile. This procedure is called a smile makeover by employing minimally invasive techniques.

The Dental Bonding Process

· First the dentist must select an appropriate material to match the natural color of your own teeth. This is important to achieve a natural effect. The shades must match as closely as possible.

· A rubber barrier is inserted to isolate the tooth and prevent moisture from interfering with the process. It may be necessary for the dentist to administer a local anesthetic to numb the area before the isolation can be completed.

· The surface of the tooth must be roughened to enhance the bonding process. Afterwards, a phosphoric acid solution is applied for 15 seconds. This is not painful, and is quickly removed.

· The dentist then begins to apply the chosen bonding resin to the tooth. He or she carefully sculpts the material into the desired shape.

· Once the resin has been shaped to the desired specifications, it is hardened with the assistance of a high intensity lamp. It is then polished and buffed to match the other teeth seamlessly.

· In most cases the procedure has been pre-planned, so the entire bonding process can be completed in one dental visit. More complicated work, however, make take several sessions in the dentist chair.

· The final results can be an enhanced appearance that looks entirely natural. You will be able to taste and enjoy food just as though you had no work done.

Benefits of Bonding

· There are many benefits to using composite veneers to correct cosmetic and structural teeth imperfections. The process is affordable and painless, and will last a very long time.

· Porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges can be quite expensive and the process is complicated and can be painful. These treatments may require many repeat dental visits.

· The resins employed in the process are flexible, so they can contract or expand in the same way the natural tooth does. This will help prevent cracks in the veneer or the possible loss of the tooth.

Cost of Procedure

Many patients are concerned about financing dental work. It can be expensive, but the bonding process is cheaper than many alternatives. Insurance often covers the expense if the work is necessary for structural repair. The exact price charged depends on the number of teeth that need reshaping or may be impacted by the areas in which the bonding is performed.

Most find the work affordable, no matter what their financial background may be. The benefits outweigh financial considerations. Your smile can be straitened and whitened; your overall appearance will be greatly improved. Most find this sufficient reason to bear the cost of cosmetic dentistry.

Nilo A. Hernandez, Jr. D.D.S. PA is a cosmetic dentist creating great smiles through implant dentistry, bone grafting and soft tissue grafting using the best sedation dentistry methods available today. To learn more you may visit our offices at 6080 SW 40th St., Suite 8 Miami, FL 33155 or call for an appointment at 305-279-1643 or visit http://www.smilecreator.com