Composite resin is a material used in cosmetic dentistry for bonding treatments. When your dentist bonds your teeth, they will look very natural. Composite resin looks and feels like modeling clay, and after your dentist molds it onto your tooth, a special light is used to harden the material. After it hardens, your tooth will be polished so that it resembles your own enamel. Here are some ways resin bonding can improve your dental imperfections:

Broken Teeth, Gaps, And Chips

If you break or chip your tooth, bonding with composite resin can repair the tooth so that it regains its original shape and size. Bonding can also eliminate gaps between your teeth. To get rid of gaps, your dentist will place a small amount of the resin where the gap is, closing it in its entirety.

While composite resin bonding can help close small gaps, if you have large gaps or spaces between your teeth, your cosmetic dentist may refer you to an orthodontist. Large gaps are more effectively treated with braces and retainers. Bonding material is typically very resistant to stains; however, if can still discolor if you do not regularly brush. 

Resistant Stains

If your teeth do not get whiter after bleaching treatments, bonding may be your answer. Although the composite resin does not eliminate the stains in the way that bleaching does, it hides them so that they are no longer visible.

Stains that don't respond to bleaching techniques include those that are caused by the antibiotic tetracycline and other medications such as liquid iron supplements. Other treatments for resistant dental stains include porcelain veneers, which are thin covers that fit over your natural teeth.

If your dentist recommends veneers, you will need to be careful when eating hard foods because veneers, especially those covering your front teeth, can crack or come off. Like bonding, porcelain veneers are resistant to stains, but they still require regular brushing and professional cleanings. It is important to note that if one of your veneers comes off your natural tooth, never attempt to glue it back on. Instead, save the veneer and see your dentist as soon as possible. 

If you have dental imperfections, consider composite resin bonding. You will be very pleased with the cosmetic results and ease of care. Cosmetic dentistry treatments can restore even the most unattractive teeth, and you will enjoy the benefits for years to come.