Dental Bonding in Bethesda, MD

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a versatile cosmetic dental treatment designed to enhance the appearance of your teeth. It involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of your teeth, which is then hardened with a special light to bond the material to the tooth. This procedure is typically used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, improve the appearance of discolored teeth, close gaps between teeth, and even change the shape of teeth. The process is minimally invasive, often requires little to no removal of the tooth enamel, and can usually be completed in a single visit, making it a convenient option for many patients.

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Did you know…

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Dental bonding can be completed in just one office visit, unlike veneers or crowns.

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The Dental Bonding Treatment Process

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Consultation and Planning

The first step in the dental bonding process is an initial consultation with Dr. Maddy Goodman or Dr. Heather Sholander at Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics. During this visit, the dentist will examine your teeth and discuss your aesthetic goals. They will determine if dental bonding is the right treatment for you and develop a personalized treatment plan. The dentist will also select a shade of resin that closely matches the natural color of your teeth to ensure a seamless appearance. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for achieving the desired results and addressing any specific concerns you may have.

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Preparing the Tooth

Once the treatment plan is established, the next step involves preparing your tooth for the bonding process. The dentist will start by gently roughening the surface of the tooth to help the bonding material adhere better. A conditioning liquid is then applied to the tooth to further facilitate the bonding process. This preparation is minimal and painless, ensuring that the natural structure of your tooth is preserved. The goal is to create a suitable surface for the resin to bond effectively, ensuring a durable and long-lasting result.

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Applying and Shaping the Resin

After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will apply the tooth-colored resin to the affected area. The resin is carefully molded and shaped to achieve the desired appearance, whether it's filling a gap, repairing a chip, or enhancing the tooth's shape. Once the resin is perfectly shaped, it is hardened using a special curing light. This process bonds the material securely to the tooth. Finally, the dentist will polish the bonded tooth to match the sheen of your natural teeth, resulting in a flawless and natural-looking finish.

The Benefits Of Dental Bonding

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Quick and Convenient

One of the primary benefits of dental bonding is its speed and convenience. Unlike other cosmetic dental procedures that may require multiple visits, dental bonding can often be completed in a single appointment. This makes it an ideal option for individuals with busy schedules who are looking to enhance their smile quickly and effectively.

Cost-Effective Solution

Tooth extractions, particularly of wisdom teeth, play a vital role in preventing overcrowding in the mouth. When there isn't enough space for all the teeth to fit properly, it can lead to misalignment and bite issues. Extracting teeth that cause overcrowding ensures that the remaining teeth have enough room to grow straight and aligned, which is essential for a healthy, functional bite and an attractive smile.

Versatility in Cosmetic Enhancement

Dental bonding is a highly versatile procedure that can address a variety of dental concerns. Whether you need to repair a chipped tooth, close gaps, or improve discoloration, dental bonding can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Its adaptability allows patients to achieve a more uniform and attractive smile with minimal alterations to their natural teeth.

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Dental bonding can last up to 10 years with proper oral hygiene and care.

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Did you know…

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Kids laugh around 400 times per day.

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Have questions about preventive dentistry for your child? Find answers here.

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How can I ensure my child is brushing properly?

You should brush your child’s teeth twice a day for two minutes until they’re 6 years old, or are able to tie their shoes on their own. After this, we recommend making brushing a family activity. You can demonstrate proper technique to your children, and make sure they’re brushing regularly.

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How do I floss my child’s teeth?

You will need to floss your child’s teeth for them until they’re about 10, since it’s a lot harder to learn proper flossing technique than it is to learn proper brushing technique. 

Flossing your child’s teeth will not be dissimilar to flossing your own. Depending on their age, you may need to find a toy or distraction to keep them entertained while you floss their teeth. Floss holders may be helpful for toddlers so they don’t bite your fingers. Just make sure you’re flossing between every two teeth that make contact and behind their most rear molar. 

We recommend flossing your child’s teeth once per day, and having them rinse with water or mouthwash after flossing to remove any food particles that were dislodged during the process. 

Why are my child’s baby teeth important?

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Healthy baby teeth are essential for your child to eat and chew properly, and damaged or decayed baby teeth can cause them a lot of pain and discomfort. Though they will fall out naturally as your child ages, your child’s baby teeth should remain in place until they fall out on their own, the last of which is typically around age 12. If they lose one or more teeth prematurely, this can affect their future oral development. This is because baby teeth help form the “paths” that the adult teeth follow when they emerge. If your child loses one or more baby teeth prematurely, this can lead to future oral development problems. 

Is my child’s preventive care covered by my dental insurance?

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Yes. Almost every dental insurance plan covers preventive care, like six-month cleanings and exams, for dependents. Fluoride treatments and dental sealants may also be covered, in some cases. However, coverage for each insurer and dental plan varies, so we recommend consulting directly with your insurer to learn about coverage limits for pediatric preventive care, covered treatments, and other such information. 

Did you know…

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Around 85% of children see the dentist regularly. 

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