Did you recently chip a tooth? Is there a persistent stain on your incisor? Are you desperate to fill the gap between your front teeth? In all of these situations and many more, dental bonding may be the ideal solution. This minimally invasive cosmetic dental procedure can assist with a variety of minor repairs. Plus, it’s far more affordable than other options, such as porcelain veneers. But perhaps you’re worried about time. When can you expect to show off your gorgeous new smile? How long does dental bonding take?
The Timeline for Dental Bonding
If you’re curious about how long you’ll have to wait to enjoy your beautiful, bonded teeth (or tooth), it helps to know a little about the process. Typically, the treatment requires just five steps:
- Preparation: Your dentist will examine your tooth, discuss your goals, and select a composite resin shade that closely matches your natural tooth color. Typically, anesthesia is unnecessary.
- Roughening: Next, your dentist will lightly roughen the surface of the tooth and apply a conditioning liquid, which will help the bonding material adhere well.
- Resin Application: After that, your dentist will apply the tooth-colored resin material to your tooth, molding it into the perfect shape.
- Curing: Then, your dentist will use a special curing light to quickly harden the resin so that the bonding material is securely attached to your tooth.
- Finishing Touches: Finally, to ensure the treated tooth seamlessly blends in with your natural teeth, your dentist will carefully trim and polish the resin.
Considering these five simple steps, what do you think? How long does dental bonding take?
Typically, dental bonding can be completed in a single appointment and requires about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. If you’re interested in a minor repair to a single tooth, you’ll be in and out before you know it! If multiple teeth are involved, you might be waiting in the chair a little longer, but it’s still a relatively quick process overall. In addition, you don’t have to worry about any downtime afterward. In most cases, you can go straight back to living your life.
Time-wise, How Does It Compare to Similar Cosmetic Procedures?
Dental bonding is one of the fastest cosmetic procedures available. Porcelain veneers are the most common alternative, and they require at least two visits: one for tooth preparation and impressions and another for placement after the veneers are custom-made in a lab, which typically takes 1–2 weeks. Crowns are technically also an option, but not only are they a far more invasive treatment, but they also require two or more appointments.
When Does Dental Bonding Require a Lengthier Timeline?
In some instances, dental bonding may take a little longer than that brief 30 to 60-minute estimate. A few factors might extend the timeline:
- If you’re having bonding done on multiple teeth
- If your teeth have significant structural issues or decay
- If your teeth require more complex cosmetic corrections, such as closing a large gap or reshaping uneven teeth
- If you require follow-up adjustments to make the bonded tooth look more natural or feel more comfortable
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So, how long does dental bonding take? Most bonding treatments can be completed in just one appointment, which takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth, with no downtime required. This makes it a quick, convenient option no matter what your schedule.
If you’re looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist in or near Springfield, Missouri, contact Wilkinson Dental. Our team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. Schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!