Address Imperfections with Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is an easy, cost-effective way to improve the appearance of chipped or cracked teeth, as well as minor gaps between teeth. This treatment can be used to alter the shape, size, and shade of teeth for a more balanced, vibrant smile. Our dentists at Han & Ahn DMD, PC in McLean, VA, can perform this treatment in just one office visit using a moldable composite resin material. Bonding is ideal for patients who wish to enhance their smile without committing to more extensive cosmetic procedures. We can review your unique aesthetic goals and design a treatment especially for you.
Understanding Candidacy
Patients with minor cosmetic imperfections can benefit from dental bonding. This procedure can correct a variety of concerns, such as:
- Chips or cracks which develop as a result of injury, enamel wear, or teeth grinding
- Small gaps between teeth
- Crooked or misaligned teeth
- Unevenly shaped teeth
- Severe dental staining and discoloration that cannot be addressed with teeth whitening
Dental bonding can also be combined with other cosmetic treatments for more comprehensive results.
The Bonding Procedure
The bonding procedure is easy and pain-free. However, if you are particularly nervous about undergoing treatment, we offer sedation to alleviate your fears. We can begin by cleaning and preparing each tooth. Using a shade-guide, we can then select a color that blends with your natural enamel. Before applying the resin, we can cover the surface of each tooth with a special solution to help the bonding material adhere more effectively.
Bonding involves carefully sculpting the material over compromised teeth. This step requires an artistic eye and technical expertise to ensure the most natural-looking results. We can then apply a special curing light to solidify the bonding material in place. If needed, we can trim the resin to ensure it does not disrupt your bite. If no modifications are necessary, we can polish your tooth to reveal your newly enhanced smile.
Bonding vs. Veneers
Dental bonding is an entirely reversible procedure, as it requires no modifications to your natural teeth. The entire treatment typically takes only one office visit and is often more affordable than porcelain veneers. With proper care, the results of bonding can last up to 10 years.
Dental bonding is an entirely reversible procedure, as it requires no modifications to your natural teeth.
Porcelain veneers are thin shells that bond to the front surface of teeth. The treatment typically takes two office visits to complete. Each shell is custom-crafted by a trained lab technician. Although veneers are thin, they often require your dentist to remove a small portion of enamel to ensure proper fit. As such, traditional veneers are considered permanent.
Begin Your Transformation Today
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, we can design a custom treatment plan to address your concerns. To find out if dental bonding is right for you or to learn about our other cosmetic services, we invite you to schedule a consultation at our practice. You may contact us online anytime or call us at (703) 356-7001.
