Bonding
A simple, low-risk way to fix small chips, cracks, stains and gaps, usually in one visit.
- Time
- About 30 to 60 minutes a tooth
- Visits
- Usually one
- Lasts
- Usually 3 to 10 years
How bonding works
Bonding corrects small flaws such as cracks, chips, discoloration and gaps between teeth. If Dr. McFerran decides bonding is right for you, the material is applied to each tooth and hardened with special tools. It is quick, and the result corrects small blemishes so your smile looks healthy.
Why patients choose it
It carries little to no risk and is non-invasive. Bonding is not considered permanent, but with good care it lasts for years, and it can fix the small imperfections that make people self-conscious.
Caring for bonded teeth
Brush and floss as usual, and avoid biting sticky candy, ice cubes and hard raw vegetables. Coffee, tea and tobacco can stain bonding over time, so regular cleanings help keep it looking its best.
Questions
Is bonding an alternative to veneers?
It is often compared with porcelain veneers. Bonding needs minimal enamel removal and suits minor discoloration or small gaps. Veneers may last longer, and bonding is the more conservative and cost-effective choice.
Can bonding close gaps without braces?
It can close small gaps and reshape uneven teeth, which suits patients who want a better smile without braces or aligners for minor concerns.
Does it need anesthesia?
It may not. Bonding is usually done in one visit, at about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.