Bonding
Bonding is an alternative to veneers, and can be used as a restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored or misaligned.
How does it work?
The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly etching the surface and applying a bonding liquid.A composite (plastic) resin is applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist, and cured with an ultra-violet light.The resin is then trimmed, smoothed and polished to a natural appearance.
Considerations
The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit, and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel, it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding typically lasts several years before need of repair.