Dental Bonding vs Dental Crowns

Dental bonding and dental crowns are two of the most commonly used restoratives for a damaged tooth. When a tooth becomes damaged, it is important to seek professional care as soon as possible. Doing so will allow them to provide one of the two restoratives before the damage worsens and requires more intensive treatment. Let us look at when the dentist will recommend each restorative and what acquiring them entails.

Dental bonding

Dental bonding requires less work than dental crowns, which is why dentists often use it for cosmetic purposes. Cosmetic purposes include chipped teeth, closing gaps, or changing a tooth's shape. The bonding material consists of composite resin, the same as that used in dental fillings. It is easily manipulatable and durable.

During the procedure, which is all performed in one appointment, there are typically six steps:

• Step one: Selecting a shade that closely resembles the natural tooth
• Step two: Preparing the target tooth by creating rough edges or etches and applying a special condition treatment for bonding
• Step three: Manipulating the material to the desired shape onto the target tooth
• Step four: Curing or hardening the material into place so it can become durable
• Step five: Testing the bite and make minor adjustments
• Step six: Polishing the tooth so that it is smooth and blends seamlessly with the natural tooth and surrounding teeth

The entire procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how many teeth are receiving bonding and the goal of the procedure.

Dental bonding results can last between three and ten years— diligent, proper care for the latter. With bonding, there is no need to have specialty oral care products unless directly stated by the dentist. However, it is important to maintain normal hygiene routines such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a mouth rinse at least once daily. It is also important to take precautions for certain sports activities and avoid using the teeth to tear open packages or bite down on inanimate objects.

Dental crowns

Like dental bonding, dentists can recommend dental crowns for various reasons. Dental crowns are durable, long-lasting options, whether to protect a tooth after a break, decay treatment, or close gaps. Their design is like a cap, completely enveloping the target tooth. The primary materials a dentist will choose from are composite resin, metal, porcelain, or ceramic. All are durable and can be closely matched to the patient's natural tooth color.

Dental crowns usually require two appointments. The first appointment will involve preparing the tooth, taking 3D images, and creating a mold of the tooth and surrounding teeth. The next three steps will involve crafting the permanent dental crown, which will take approximately two weeks to return to the office. Lastly, the dentist will create a temporary crown to protect the vulnerable tooth between appointments.

The final appointment will involve removing the temporary crown and bonding the permanent one into place. The dentist can make minor adjustments for a seamless fit and bite if necessary. With proper care, dental crowns can last upwards of 15 years. Patients should follow the same care instructions as those for dental bonding.