Composite Bonding

Chips, cracks or gaps between teeth can really detract from an otherwise healthy smile.  But at Harrison Dental one effective tool that can restore or repair these problems is dental composite bonding.

Dental composite is the same material that we use as tooth-colored fillings to repair cavities almost invisibly.  The composite material used in dental bonding is a resin-based material that can include dental ceramic to increase its durability and translucency.

How is dental bonding done?

When repairing chips, cracks or gaps between teeth the tooth is first etched with a chemical etching solution to allow the composite material to better adhere to the tooth.  The composite is then applied in thin layers until the desired shape and repair is achieved.

When working with the composite material it is a dough-like consistency and can be sculpted and shaped to cover damaged areas or fill gaps.  Once the desired shape and fill is accomplished Dr. Fife uses a hand-held wand to shine a specific wavelength of focused blue light that activates the composite to harden into a solid filling or veneer.  In creating the desired repair or look of the tooth often the composite will be built up in thin layers, each layer being cured or hardened as it is applied.

When the composite bond is completed the doctor will do some final shaping.  The new bonded tooth will then be polished to match your other teeth and give you a beautiful, healthy smile.

If you or someone you know suffers from chipped, cracked or gapped teeth or from stubborn, deep stains that don’t respond to whitening, please call Lindy, our scheduling coordinator, for a complimentary cosmetic exam at 342-3695.  We’ll give you something to smile about as we unleash “The Power of Your Smile”.