Cosmetic Bonding in Belchertown
Generally speaking, does your smile make you happy? If the answer to that question is “yes, but…” then cosmetic bonding may be what your smile needs. Cosmetic bonding, also called dental bonding, is a quick, simple and relatively inexpensive treatment that Dr. Medaugh can use to improve the appearance of one or two teeth.
Actually, you may have some of the same material used for cosmetic bonding in your mouth already. If you’ve ever needed a tooth restored because of decay, then chances are Dr. Medaugh repaired your cavity with a tooth-colored filling. The filling is made of composite resin materials that are uniquely blended to match the color of your existing teeth. We use this same material during a cosmetic bonding procedure.
With cosmetic bonding, Dr. Medaugh can repair a number of smile flaws including:
- A tooth that is chipped or slightly cracked
- A discolored tooth that does not respond to teeth whitening
- A slightly cracked or broken tooth
- A tooth that is obviously misshaped
- Somewhat crooked teeth
- Teeth that have gaps in between them
Belchertown Dental Bonding
If you and Dr. Medaugh decide that cosmetic bonding is the right cosmetic choice for you, then he will first prep your tooth to receive the bonding material. By applying a mild phosphoric acid to the enamel surface, your tooth becomes roughened—think of the acid as sandpaper for your tooth—which makes for a stronger adhesion. Dr. Medaugh then places the soft bonding material on your tooth and proceeds to shape and sculpt it. With a special curing light, the composite resin hardens quickly, so we can polish and buff the material to a sheen that matches your other teeth.
Compared to porcelain veneers or crowns, cosmetic bonding is less expensive, requires a shorter appointment time and rarely necessitates anesthesia. However, unlike these other cosmetic options, cosmetic bonding material can stain, especially for the first few days after you’ve had the procedure. So to minimize staining, try to avoid beverages such as coffee, tea and red wine, as well as tomato-based foods. Smoking can also stain your newly bonded tooth, so for the sake of your smile as well as your overall health, Dr. Medaugh recommends kicking the habit if you’ve had cosmetic bonding.
Contact Our Office Today
To meet with the Belchertown cosmetic dentist about dental bonding, another cosmetic dentistry procedure or any of our general or restorative services, call the office of Dr. Medaugh of Valley Dentists of Belchertown. Our office is conveniently located in Belchertown and serves patients from Belchertown, Ware, Granby, Ludlow, Warren, Hardwick, Gilbertville, Hadley, Amherst, Palmer and all surrounding communities.
