My dentist bleached my upper right front tooth. I had a root canal on the tooth in 2018 but the tooth darkened, so my dentist bleached it. In certain light, the tooth still looks dark. Regardless of the light, I can tell the tooth is darker than my left front tooth. I do not want tooth structure removed for a crown or veneer, so I am considering a composite veneer on the dark tooth or both front teeth if needed. My concern is what happens when the bonding gets old. Will a dentist have to grind off tooth enamel every time I need new bonding? Thank you. Shem from GA
Shem
Dental bonding is ideal for a slightly discolored tooth. However, don’t expect your family dentist to achieve a perfect match. Applying bonding to look natural and match your surrounding teeth requires advanced cosmetic dentist training.
Composite Bonding for a Discolored Tooth
A trained dentist can conceal your dark tooth with composite bonding.
Traditional dental composite
A cosmetic dentist will take these steps:
- Remove plaque from your teeth
- Lightly shave some of your tooth enamel to make room for the bonding material and prevent your teeth from looking bulky
- Combine various stints and composites to achieve the right shade and translucence
- Apply the composite to your tooth
- Shape, harden, and polish the composite
How Long Does Dental Composite Last?
Dental bonding is an alternative to porcelain veneers
Traditional dental bonding lasts about five years before the surface begins to deteriorate. Although bonding doesn’t last as long as porcelain veneers, quality bonding from a cosmetic dentist supports the longevity of your dental bonding. Also, a cosmetic dentist can help maintain your bonding and polish away stains.
As the bonding ages, a skilled cosmetic dentist can remove and replace it.
Consult with an Advanced Cosmetic Dentist
Schedule an appointment with an advanced cosmetic dentist to discuss how composite can lighten your front tooth and match the color of your surrounding teeth.
David Finley, DDS, a Monroe, Louisiana, accredited cosmetic dentist and Academy of General Dentistry Fellow, sponsors this post. Read about what Dr. Finley and his team do to provide some of the best dental care in Monroe.
