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Genetics, dietary habits, and trauma can all play a role in tooth discoloration, breakage, and chipping. Even though not all of these problems affect the functionality of your teeth, they can all affect the appearance of your smile.
Even if you haven’t sustained physical damage to your teeth, you may still be unhappy with their appearance. Teeth that are uneven in length or misshapen can be genetic and can cause feelings of insecurity in some people.
Is dental bonding the same thing as dental fillings?
In terms of cosmetic and restorative dental procedures, dental bonding and dental fillings are two of the most common treatment options.
However, you may wonder if dental bonding and fillings are identical. There are some similarities between dental bonding and fillings, but there are also significant differences. Dental bonding can be used for both cosmetic and restorative purposes, whereas fillings are primarily used for restorative purposes.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding uses colour-matched composite resin to restore the natural shape of a patient's teeth.
Bonding is a relatively affordable method for restoring the appearance of healthy teeth. This is particularly true in situations involving minor damage and light decay. It can be used to repair chipped teeth and discoloured teeth, but its benefits are not purely aesthetic.
There are practical uses for dental bonding as well, including protecting tooth roots. Receding gums expose these roots, increasing their vulnerability. Dental bonding can be applied to the teeth to protect the exposed roots, helping reduce sensitivity and the risk of decay.
A bonding procedure at your Vernon dentist will normally take about 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure usually takes only one visit.
What is a dental filling?
Fillings can also be considered cosmetic, but they are typically used for restorative purposes. Fillings restore teeth that have been damaged on the inside by decay or trauma. These are typically stronger than dental bonding.
The good news is that like dental bonding, fillings can mimic the appearance of the natural tooth because they can be made of materials that closely match the colour of your natural teeth.
For back teeth, however, our Vernon dentists often recommend getting amalgam (silver) fillings. This is because amalgam is stronger and can better withstand the heavy bite forces of your molars over time than white fillings.