What is Tooth Bonding?

If you have chipped, discolored, or damaged teeth, dental bonding might be ideal for you. Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure in which color-matched resin is applied to damaged areas then cured with light. The finished product looks and feels like natural teeth. Tooth bonding is a conservative dental approach to improve the look of your smile.

Who is a Candidate for Tooth Bonding? 

Many dental patients choose tooth bonding when it comes to repairing chips and cracks in the teeth. You may be a good candidate for bonding if:

• You have hard to remove stains
• You want to make teeth appear longer
• Your teeth are misshapen 
• Your teeth have chips or cracks 
• Your roots need protection due to gum recession
• You have unwanted gaps between teeth

Of course, what is right for one dental patient may not be right for another. This is why it’s imperative to schedule an examination; your dentist can analyze your unique dental needs and create a customized treatment plan that suits you.

How is Bonding Done? 

The process of tooth bonding is fairly simple. First, your dentist will match the color of the bonding resin to your natural tooth color. Then, your natural teeth are prepped with a primer liquid to help the bonding resin adhere properly. After the resin is applied and shaped to achieve the desired effect, light is applied to harden the resin.

Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding 

When it comes to cosmetic dentistry, tooth bonding is one of the most affordable and effective procedures available today. Normally, anesthesia is not required for the bonding process. And, dental bonding does not require the substantial removal of tooth enamel. Bonding is also a faster procedure as compared to crowns and veneers, which require multiple visits.

Dental bonding may not last as long as crowns or veneers, however, the convenience factor and price make them well worth it. When it comes to minor cosmetic changes, this conservative cosmetic solutions is a great option. As with any dental procedure, it’s necessary to have a dentist examine your oral health to understand all your options and to make the most informed decision.

Schedule Your Appointment

Let Woo Family Dentistry handle all of your oral health needs. This modern dental office in San Leandro is equipped with the latest high-tech equipment and a friendly, experienced staff. Whether you need preventative dentistry or a cosmetic procedure like tooth bonding, Dr. Ronald Woo and his office are eager to provide the superior dental care you deserve. Call 510-351-0931 today to schedule your appointment.

Root Canal or Extraction?

If you’re experiencing tooth or facial pain that doesn’t go away in a day or two, it is time to see the dentist. Ignoring dental problems is never an effective solution. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may require a root canal or extraction to eradicate the pain.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal or Extraction

There are a number of uncomfortable symptoms that may signal the need for a root canal or extraction. If you experience any of the following, it’s imperative to obtain prompt dental care:

• Tooth sensitivity to heat or cold 
• Pain and/or tenderness when chewing
• Pain and/or tenderness when touched
• Swelling of the mouth and/or face 
• Abscess on gum tissue or presence of pus

Tooth decay is a common culprit when it comes to oral health problems. When bacteria and carbohydrate sugars react in the mouth, corrosive acids are formed that dissolve the protective enamel covering the teeth. If left untreated, bacteria will also move under the gum line attacking the soft tissue, roots and bone.

Which is Best? 

Most people don’t want to lose their natural teeth if at all possible. Luckily, natural teeth can often be spared with a root canal. According to a survey conducted by the American Association of Endodontists, 76 percent of survey participants said they’d choose a root canal over an extraction.
Another surprising statistic is that 58 percent of survey participants who have had an extraction did not replace the tooth or teeth. Unfortunately, this isn’t just a cosmetic issue. Continued oral health problems, like shifting neighboring teeth and bone loss, can result when missing teeth aren’t replaced.

Preventing Oral Health Problems 

The best way to avoid extractions and even root canals is through preventive measures. Although prevention isn’t 100 percent effective, it can go a long way towards ensuring good oral health. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, it’s crucial to get regular dental checkups. Only professional cleanings can remove harmful tartar and plaque — the precursor to periodontal disease.

We Can Help 

Don’t suffer with unnecessary discomfort any longer — schedule your appointment with Woo Family Dentistry today by calling 510-351-0931. Dr. Woo and his friendly, experienced staff not only handle all of your oral health needs. Whether you need a root canal or just a checkup, Dr. Woo and his staff are here to serve you!