How Does Tooth Bonding Work?

Dental bonding is one of the most affordable procedures available to patients who need to get chipped or cracked teeth fixed. Dental bonding relies on a strong, plastic material called a resin, which is applied in a putty-like state and exposed to a special light to harden it and, ultimately, bonds to the tooth.

Tooth bonding procedures typically take place in three phases. First, of course, is preparation. During the preparation phase, the tooth is prepped to receive the resin. Usually, this will involve cleaning the tooth to expose its actual color from beneath any overlying stain. The dentist then compares the color of the teeth to a shade guide, which he then uses as an aide for selecting the composite resin color that most closely matches.

During the application phase, the surface of the tooth is roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied. Both these steps improve the bonding material’s ability to adhere to the tooth. The resin is then applied and worked to the desired shape.

Finally, during the hardening and finishing phase, the special hardening light—usually ultraviolet or laser—is shone on the material. Afterward, any imperfections are trimmed, and the material is polished to match the natural sheen of the rest of the tooth.