Home > Services > Cosmetic Dentistry > Bonding
Dental bonding is a simple, non-invasive, affordable way to fix cosmetic imperfections. Cosmetic dental bonding is often used to replace small areas of missing tooth structure, such as in cases of chips or decay, or to hide minor tooth defects like discoloration and small gaps.
When performing dental bonding, your Mission Viejo or San Clemente cosmetic dentist applies a layer of tooth-colored, composite resin to the area of concern. The liquid material bonds with your enamel as it fills the tooth’s pores. Once the first layer is hardened with a curing light, your Shoreline dentist can paint on a second layer and cure it, repeating the process until the desired thickness is achieved.
The dentist wraps up the procedure by shaping the bonding material and polishing it so that it’s completely undetectable and blends in with your smile. The treatment is painless and there are no needles or drilling involved.
Cosmetic dental bonding is ideal for patients whose teeth have minor defects but aren’t severely decayed. Because we don’t need to remove any of the natural tooth structure to perform dental bonding, it’s perfect for patients who aren’t ready to commit to a permanent restoration like dental veneers. Our dentists may also recommend bonding for younger patients and teens who need to wait for their teeth to fully mature before getting a permanent restoration.
Shoreline Dental Studio is represented by a group of warm, caring, intelligent and compassionate individuals. These health professionals work hard to make every experience at Shoreline Dental Studio an exceptional one. You can learn a little more about each of them below.
Your experience matters. Explore our patients’ testimonials and see why we’re their first choice in dental care.
“Best dental experience ever! Everyone is so sweet, caring and incredibly knowledgeable and confident. I was super nervous about going to dentist after not having gone for awhile but as soon as stepped into the studio I felt like I was in good, loving hands and had nothing to worry about! Everyone is so great about creating a calm and friendly experience:) Dr. Livingston is the best!”
Becca B
“It’s a friendly, welcoming and stress free environment. From the candle in the reception area to the windows in the treatment rooms looking out on a garden, it feels very non-dentist like, which is actually a good thing. They addressed the issue I had come in for and didn’t try to upsell me on other unnecessary treatments. I actually found a dentist’s office that I like!”
Rhonda H
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Dental bonding is a simple, non-invasive way to fix small imperfections on a tooth, from replacing a chip to hiding discoloration. Your dentist applies a tooth-colored liquid resin composite to the area and shapes it as needed. As the liquid fills the area, it bonds to your natural tooth. Sometimes, multiple layers are required to achieve the desired effect; fortunately, it dries very quickly under a curing light. Once it has hardened, your dentist will shape and polish it to a seamless shine.
It varies—depending on the placement and size, your dental bonding can last anywhere from three to ten years. Taking good care of your teeth will help prolong its life. Even then, you may only need a touch-up, not a full replacement.
It depends on the problem you’re aiming to address. Bonding is usually a cheaper option than veneers, and it’s a great option if the issue is small. Veneers cover the entire tooth, so they’re better for more extensive damage or staining. While veneers also take longer to install, they are also more durable and aesthetically pleasing. Your dentist will be able to guide you on the best choice for your smile!
Mission Viejo Office
San Clemente Office