If you have a gap between your two front teeth, your dentist would call this diastema. Diastema is not hazardous for your oral health, but it can be embarrassing. This can occur for a lot of different reasons, but it can also be corrected. Some people choose braces to move the teeth closer together, but this is not the most sensible or cost-effective option for adults. Instead, your dentist might recommend composite bonding to fix the problem. Here are three things to know about composite bonding.

What is composite bonding?

Composite bonding is a process used to fix a variety of issues with teeth. Bonding is a process that refers to attaching a material to a tooth, and composite is the material used. Composite is a resin-based material that can be tinted to match the color of a person's teeth. It is used not only for filling in gaps between teeth, but also for filling in cavities, filling in chips in teeth, and fixing teeth that are discolored.

It is an ideal material for these types of problems, primarily because it adheres well to teeth. This makes it strong and durable, and it offers a natural appearance.

How is it used to close gaps in teeth?

A dentist completes the process of closing a gap by applying the composite material to the two teeth next to the gap. The dentist then shapes the composite material and sands it down. The goal is to make the teeth slightly bigger so that they extend towards each other more. By doing this, the gap will be gone.

What makes this the best method for filling in gaps?

Composite bonding is not the only way a dentist can close the gap between teeth, but it is typically the most cost-effective way. Composite bonding costs around $300 to $600, while veneers cost $900 to $2,500 per tooth. Composite bonding may not last as long as the other methods, but it can last for around seven years if you take good care of your teeth.

Another benefit of using composite bonding to close gaps is that it can be completed in one visit. If you choose braces, it may take months or years to achieve your goal. With veneers and crowns, you will typically need to visit the dentist at least two times to complete the process.

If you are ready to find a way to close the gap between two of your teeth, contact a cosmetic dentist, such as Preferred Family Dental, to find out if composite bonding is right for you.

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