When it comes to fixing teeth, you may hear about two popular treatments in restorative dentistry: dental bonding and dental fillings. Both treatments are great for repairing imperfect teeth, but they aren’t exactly the same. So, what’s the difference between the two, and how do you know which one is right for you?
The best way to choose the right option for you is with the help of an expert, like Dr. Alex Shore at Signature Smile Arts in Homewood, IL. Schedule a consultation at (708) 799-5353 for accurate, personalized advice.
Now, let’s explore the differences between dental bonding and dental fillings.
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a multipurpose procedure that dentists use to:
- Repair chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth
- Fill gaps between teeth
- Change the shape of a tooth
Dr. Shore simply applies a tooth-colored resin to the desired area, molds it to the perfect shape, and then hardens it with a curing light. The result is a natural-looking fix that blends right in with the rest of your teeth.
Bonding is popular in cosmetic and restorative dentistry because it’s simple, quick, non-invasive, and can last for several years. There’s usually no need for drilling or numbing, making it a great option for patients who want to improve the appearance of their smile without too much fuss.
What Are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings, on the other hand, are a treatment that dentists designed to repair cavities. When decay creates a crater in a tooth, Dr. Shore cleans out the problem area and fills it with a strong material (usually composite resin, porcelain, or metal amalgam) to restore the tooth’s structure. Fillings prevent further decay and keep your tooth healthy and functional.
Like dental bonding, fillings also use tooth-colored materials for a seamless look, but their main purpose is to repair cavities rather than cosmetic issues.
Which Treatment Is Best for You?
If you have a chipped or discolored tooth or small gaps between your teeth, dental bonding might be the perfect solution. It’s quick, easy, and can transform your smile in just one visit. Plus, it’s a great option if you want to avoid invasive dental work.
However, if you have a cavity, a dental filling is the way to go. Dentists specifically design fillings to stop decay and protect your tooth from further damage. While they don’t address cosmetic issues, they keep your tooth healthy and strong.
Explore Dental Bonding and Fillings at Signature Smile Arts
Both dental bonding and dental fillings have their place in restorative dentistry. Bonding is ideal for improving your smile’s appearance, while fillings are perfect for tackling cavities. If you’re unsure which treatment you need, Dr. Shore can help you decide based on your specific situation.
Whether you need to fix a chipped tooth or fill a cavity, Signature Smile Arts has the right solution to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. So, why wait? Contact our Homewood, IL, dentist here, or reach our front desk team at (708) 799-5353 for appointments and information.