Dental bonding is perhaps one of the most common solutions for cosmetic dental issues. If you have a gap between two of your teeth (a diastema), bonding material can be used to close the gap and give you a more aesthetically pleasing smile. Here is a quick look at the basic steps involved in a dental bonding procedure to close a gap between teeth.

1. Material Shade Is Chosen to Match Your Teeth

In order for the bonding procedure to have the most natural outcome, the material has to be perfectly matched to the shade of your natural teeth. The dentist will utilize special pigmenting materials to aptly achieve the matching hue.

2. The Surface of the Affected Teeth Is Prepared

The surfaces of the affected teeth will be treated with an etching procedure and a conditioning formula that prepares the surface for the bonding agent. In general, the etching process sort-of roughs up the smooth surface of the teeth. Without this step, the bonding material cannot properly adhere to the teeth.

3. Bonding Material Is Applied, Sculpted, and Cured

The bonding material is a bit like putty before it is hardened. The dentist will place the putty on the teeth and carefully shape it until the gap is perfectly closed. When satisfied, the dentist will use a mouthpiece outfitted with an ultraviolet light to cure the bonding material. The finished, hardened bonding material is then polished so it has the same texture as the rest of your teeth.

Talk to an Athens Dentist About Your Smile Concerns

Even though small cosmetic smile issues like a gap between your teeth may not be an oral health concern, they can be a concern for your self-confidence for sure. Reach out to us at Athens Smiles Family Dental in Athens, TX to schedule an appointment to discuss your smile concerns. https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/bonding/teeth-bonding-for-gaps-between-your-front-teeth