Cosmetic Bonding

Consider cosmetic bonding if you want a brighter, whiter, or more aesthetically pleasing smile. Bonding can correct minor oral imperfections, helping you look your best. At Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley in San Francisco, California, cosmetic and general dentists Aref Natour, DDS, Nisha Krishnaiah, DDS, and the team use cosmetic bonding to treat various problems, including chips, cracks, and tooth discoloration. Call the office to request a cosmetic bonding consultation today or book online. 

What is cosmetic bonding?

Cosmetic bonding is an outpatient procedure that improves the appearance of your tooth enamel. 

Before treatment, your Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley provider uses a shade guide to choose a composite resin color that matches your natural tooth enamel. Then, they create a mixture and apply it to your teeth. The resin dries instantaneously, restoring your smile as well as your biting and chewing abilities.

What types of problems can cosmetic bonding fix?

At Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley, the team uses cosmetic bonding to treat various oral health problems, including:

• Chipped teeth
• Cracked teeth
• Gaps between the teeth
• Exposed tooth roots
• Pitting

You might also be a candidate for cosmetic bonding if you have a minor cavity. Your dentist can remove the decaying part of your enamel and fill the hole with composite resin material.

What does cosmetic bonding involve?

At Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley, cosmetic bonding takes 60-90 minutes on average.

First, your dentist reviews your oral health charts and completes an oral exam. Then, they use a shade guide to find a shade of resin that mimics the color and light-reflecting properties of your natural tooth enamel.  

Your dentist mixes the resin solution and uses special tools to roughen the surfaces of your teeth. Then, they carefully apply the bonding solution to your teeth with a handheld brush. The cosmetic bonding material fills the cracks in your tooth, restoring its size, strength, and appearance. 

Your dentist points an ultraviolet light at the bonding material, causing it to harden and dry. They repeat the same steps several times until achieving your desired results. 

How long does the cosmetic bonding material last?

Cosmetic bonding material lasts 5-7 years on average*, but you can keep your teeth in optimal condition by practicing good oral hygiene. The Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley team recommends:

• Brushing your teeth twice daily
• Flossing regularly
• Not biting your fingernails
• Avoiding coffee, tea, and soda to prevent stains
• Scheduling dental cleanings every six months

Consider wearing a mouthguard to prevent damage if you play sports or work a physically demanding job. 

Call Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley to receive cosmetic bonding today, or book online.

*Individual results may vary.