Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay. Dental bonding is used to improve the appearance of teeth. Here, we’ll discuss dental fillings and dental bonding to help you understand these restorative options.
Key Takeaways
- Dental fillings are used to repair teeth damaged by cavities or decay.
- Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure used to improve the appearance of teeth. It is similar to veneers in that it improves the appearance of teeth; however, veneers are more expensive and require more extensive dental work.
- Both dental fillings and dental bonding use tooth-colored materials for a natural-looking result.
- Regular dental check-ups can help prevent the need for extensive dental fillings or bonding.
- The procedure for dental fillings involves removing decayed material and filling the cavity with a tooth-colored material.
- Dental bonding involves applying a composite resin material to the surface of the teeth to improve their appearance.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are commonly used to restore the structure of a tooth that has been compromised due to tooth decay or minor damages. We offer tooth-colored dental fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, that blend seamlessly with your natural tooth enamel.
You may need a dental filling if:
- You have a cavity caused by tooth decay
- Your tooth has small chips or cracks
- A portion of your tooth has been worn down over time
Procedure Details
- Remove decay: The decayed part of the tooth is carefully removed. The area is then cleaned and prepared for the filling.
- Apply bonding agent: A special adhesive material is applied to help the filling material bond to your tooth.
- Fill the cavity: We will fill the cavity with a tooth-colored composite resin material that matches your natural tooth color.
- Curing process: A special light is used to harden and bond the filling material to your tooth.
- Final shaping: After the filling has hardened, we will shape and polish it to ensure a smooth, natural-looking finish.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a restorative procedure used to fix minor imperfections or damages in your teeth. It can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the overall appearance of your smile.
You may need dental bonding if:
- You have small chips or cracks in your teeth
- Your teeth have gaps between them
- You have discolored or stained teeth that do not respond well to whitening treatments
Procedure Details
- Prepare the tooth: We will clean and prepare the tooth by roughening the surface to help the bonding material adhere better.
- Apply bonding agent: Similar to the dental filling procedure, a special adhesive is applied to bond the composite resin material to your tooth.
- Add the bonding material: We will place and shape the composite resin material on your tooth, layer by layer, until it reaches the desired size and shape.
- Curing process: A special light is used to harden and bond the material to your tooth.
- Final shaping and polishing: After the material has hardened, we will shape and polish it for a natural finish that blends seamlessly with your other teeth.
Dental Bonding vs Veneers
Both dental bonding and veneers are popular cosmetic options for improving the appearance of your teeth. However, there are some key differences to consider when deciding which option is right for you.
Material:
- Dental bonding uses a composite resin that is sculpted and applied directly to the tooth surface.
- Veneers are custom-made shells usually made from porcelain or composite resin that are fabricated in a dental lab and then bonded to the front of the teeth.
Durability:
- Dental bonding is a less invasive procedure and generally less expensive than veneers; however, it is also less durable and may need to be repaired or replaced more frequently.
- Veneers are more durable and resistant to stains, and can last many years with proper care.
Appearance:
- Composite resin used in bonding can be precisely matched to your natural tooth color for a more seamless look, but it might not offer the same kind of translucent finish that porcelain veneers provide.
- Veneers offer a highly natural and translucent appearance that closely mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth, often making them the preferred choice for more comprehensive cosmetic improvements.
Application Process:
- Bonding generally requires only one office visit. The resin material is applied to the tooth, shaped, and hardened with a curing light in a single session. Dental bonding is reversible.
- Veneers typically require two office visits. During the first visit, the teeth are prepared by removing a small amount of enamel, and impressions are taken. The custom veneers are then fabricated in a lab and placed during the second visit. Veneers are not reversible.
Ideal Use:
- Dental bonding is ideal for minor cosmetic adjustments such as fixing small chips, cracks, or gaps between teeth.
- Veneers are better suited for more significant cosmetic changes like covering severely discolored or misshapen teeth and offering a long-lasting solution for a more uniform and polished smile.
For a more in depth explanation of veneers, see our Veneers service page.
Argyle Dental & Prosthodontics: Your Trusted Dentist in Centennial, CO
Dr. Ava Khodakhast, our board-certified prosthodontist, and her team are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care and personalized treatment plans that meet your needs.
Schedule an appointment with us to learn more about how we can improve your oral health and restore the natural function and appearance of your teeth.
Additional Services
If you are searching for dental fillings of dental bonding in Centennial or a ‘dentist near me’, we can help! Our office in Centennial, CO is conveniently located in Arapahoe County, just 5 miles from Douglas County.
Call (303) 770-2254 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile!
FAQs About Dental Fillings and Dental Bonding
The cost of dental fillings can vary depending on the size and location of the cavity, the type of filling material used, and your dentist’s fees. On average, a dental filling can cost between $100 to $600 per tooth. It is best to consult with your dentist for an accurate estimate.
The lifespan of a dental filling can vary depending on the type of material used and your oral hygiene habits. If you are someone who chews on ice, hard objects, or has a history of teeth grinding, your filling may not last as long.
Composite resin fillings or tooth-colored fillings are made to blend in with your natural teeth, making them unnoticeable. The material is the same color as your tooth and is polished and shaped in a way that it is indistinguishable from your natural tooth.
If you do not get a tooth filling, the decay will continue to spread and eventually cause more significant damage such as cavities or infections. This can potentially lead to tooth loss and even affect your overall oral health if left untreated.
The cost of dental bonding can vary depending on the size and location of the tooth and your dentist’s fees. On average, dental bonding can range from $100 to $600 per tooth. It is best to consult with your dentist for a more accurate estimate based on your specific needs.
Dental bonding can last many years with proper care and maintenance. However, regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings are necessary to ensure the longevity of your dental bonding.
