A smile that has been ruined by disease or traumatic injury need not be permanent. There are still many ways to restore that smile thanks to modern dental treatments. One of these treatments, which is a relatively simple procedure that requires neither surgery nor a long recovery period, is Restorative Dentistry, also known as Tooth Bonding.

“Tooth Bonding is a simple dental procedure where colored material is placed on the surface of a tooth, for the purpose of repairing a decayed tooth or a tooth that was chipped due to occlusal force or an accident; or to mask discolored teeth.

“Composite resin material is also used to replace, or as an alternative to, a metal filling. Another use of composite filling is to cover a root part of the tooth which has been exposed due to excessive tooth brushing force and gum recession,” said Dr. Malony L. Santos of Dental World Manila.

Dr. Santos added that restorations done using composite resin material can help a patient recover the function of his or her natural tooth. Furthermore, tooth restorations done through composite materials look more aesthetically pleasing compared to metal fillings.

Tooth Bonding using composite restoration can treat simple to complex cases of tooth damage. An adjunct such as retentive pins can be used to reinforce the strength of a composite filling in cases two walls of the affected tooth are being reinforced or built up.

Tooth restorations using this treatment can last several years before they need to be repaired or replaced due to stains. Adherence of the material depends on the extent of the restoration work and on occlusal force in the affected area. Once the procedure is done, a patient may be asked to return after 24 hours so the dentist can trim down any sharp edges.

While tooth restorations through Tooth Bonding can restore a natural tooth’s function, the composite material is not as strong as a natural tooth. Chewing food ordinary food is all right but if a patient bites on hard candy, an ice chip, or some other tough material, the composite can break and dislodge, in which case it would need replacement. Dr. Santos mentioned a few reminders for patients undergoing Restorative Dentistry/Tooth Binding.

“The patient and the dentist must discuss the limits that the composite restorations can do, so the patient will have realistic expectations from the procedure. And like all dental procedures, Restorative Dentistry begins with oral prophylaxis or tooth cleaning.

“Composite restorations can be stained by certain foods and beverages like tea or chocolates. Cigarette smoking also stains them. To minimize this, a patient should avoid such foods and smoking as much as possible. Regular brushing using a soft-bristled toothbrush, plus regular dental visits every 6 months, for oral prophylaxis and tooth polishing, are essential—not.