Patients who have a diastema, or gap between their two front teeth, are often unsatisfied with the appearance of their smile. Although diastemas are incredibly common, many people do not realize this gap can be corrected through a simple dental bonding procedure, a safe, minimally invasive, effective and affordable method for correcting gaps between teeth.
Prior to performing the dental bonding at Edgerton and Glenn procedure, it will be necessary to select a composite color that will match the shade of your natural teeth. Although dental sedation is not typically required, it may be used in certain cases. Once the composite color has been selected, the procedure will begin by etching the surfaces of your teeth to ensure they are ready for the application of the bonding composite. Next, the composite is applied and sculpted onto your teeth to increase the size of the two teeth. Once the gap is closed and has been sculpted, your dentist will examine it for proper shape and shade. Following this, the material is hardened using a high-intensity UV light and then smoothed and polished. This procedure is relatively pain-free and can typically be completed in one visit.
Is Dental Bonding Right for You?
Dental bonding is a viable option for most any patient who has a gap between their teeth, but it is important to schedule an appointment with your regular dentist or periodontist to determine if dental bonding is the best treatment option available to you. There are several factors that may inform whether dental bonding or another procedure is best suited to your needs, including the overall state of your teeth and the extent of your gap.
It is important to be aware that, although dental bonding is an effective approach for correcting cosmetic concerns, it is not a substitute for orthodontic treatment. Patients with diastemas often have additional dental issues that need to be corrected, such as a misaligned bite or crowded or crooked teeth.
Is Dental Bonding Right For Me?
Scheduling an examination is the best way to determine whether dental bonding is right for you. Doing so will allow you to discuss the time and cost involved in correcting the gap between your teeth and what sort of outcomes you can reasonably expect.
Your lifestyle habits may also help determine whether dental bonding is the optimal treatment for you. Because the bonding material is porous, it is prone to staining, which can be especially problematic for habitual smokers or for people who drink coffee regularly. If you fit into either or both of these categories, porcelain veneers may be a better treatment option for you. Bonding material is also weaker than your natural teeth, which may be an issue for people who chew on pens or regularly bite their nails, which can increase the risk of the material chipping. If you avoid these habits and take good consistent care of your teeth, dental bonding can typically last several years and be a good treatment option for your unique needs.
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