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dental bondingIf you have a visibly chipped, cracked or stained tooth, you may feel uncomfortable showing your smile to others. An imperfect smile can make you harbor feelings of insecurity and may even prevent you from attending social functions if severe enough. But an easy, affordable and modern solution is available to give you the smile you finally love – dental bonding. 

Dental bonding is a common procedure used to correct tooth imperfections. A dentist will inject a composite resin that matches your tooth shade to the site of the flawed tooth or teeth to camouflage the defect, thereby creating an overall appearance that is visibly uniform. 

Dental bonding is one of the many procedures we do routinely at Lockhart Dentistry, so you can trust us to educate you on the techniques used and why it may be the best fix for your smile.

Why is dental bonding used?

Dental bonding is used as a quick and effective repair for dental imperfections. You can choose a dental bonding procedure to fill gaps, restore discoloration, correct decayed enamel, repair chips and even to lengthen teeth that may be shorter than others. For many patients and dentists alike, it is the preferred method of dental restoration, say over crowns, fillings and veneers, since it is a simple, successful and inexpensive procedure. 

Your tooth or teeth can be bonded in one short visit to your dentist, with the process taking an average of 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. And in most cases, anesthesia is not required, unless you need a cavity filled, which is great news for dental patients who suffer adverse effects from going under anesthesia or who just prefer getting on with their day after a trip to the dentist. 

A typical dental bond can last about four to eight years before needing to be replaced, depending upon the location of the bonded tooth, as well as on lifestyle and dietary choices.

What are the benefits of dental bonding?

Because it is a cosmetic procedure, dental bonding has the benefit of fixing a tooth or teeth you feel uncomfortable with and wish looked better. In just a few simple steps, you can have a more radiant and confident smile. 

Dental bonding is also typically less expensive than crowns, veneers and fillings. Because dental bonds are made with composite resin, they’re also stronger and less likely to chip compared to other dental restoratives, although not as strong as your natural enamel. And with little to no prep time required, your dental bonding procedure can begin and be completed in just a single visit to your dentist, making it an especially attractive option if you prefer fast and simple corrective dental solutions.

While many patients may be wary about undergoing certain dental procedures, many feel assured knowing that dental bonding is one of the least invasive. In most cases, zero to minimal tooth removal is necessary, with your dentist being able to give you the specifics on your individual oral health needs.

dental bondingWhat is the dental bonding procedure like?

A dental bonding procedure is typically quick, painless and simple. Only a few steps are needed to prepare, apply and set the composite resin dental bond.

Initially, your dentist will use a shade guide to find the perfect shade of composite resin to match the natural color of your teeth. Then, your dentist roughens the surface of the tooth that needs the dental bond so the resin will adhere properly. Next, a liquid is applied to the roughened surface, which affixes to the dental bond. After the composite resin is in place, your dentist will mold the tooth as needed to match the natural shape of your teeth. The dental bond is then set and hardened with an ultraviolet light or laser. 

That is typically the end of the procedure, although your dentist may deem it necessary to further shape and polish your tooth after the resin is set, all in the name of a perfect finish.

After the procedure, you are free to carry on with your day, as well as eat and drink as you normally would, with no downtime required in most cases. 

If your dental bond was created to repair a cavity or is at a sensitive site, such as near the gums, then your dentist may recommend a topical anesthetic to limit discomfort. If this is the case with your procedure, you may need to relax for a while while the anesthesia wears off.

Why should I choose Lockhart Dentistry for my dental bonding work?

Lockhart Dentistry has provided individuals and families with expert dental care for decades. It is our goal to make you feel comfortable and to help you choose the right dental procedures for you and your family. We practice both cosmetic and family dentistry, with a staff that strives to make your day as bright as your smile.

If you think dental bonding may be the solution for your oral health, give us a call today at (317) 849-9715 and we’ll go over everything you need to know about this safe and simple procedure.

You can also request an appointment with us by using our easy online portal. Once you do, you’ll be one step closer to a beautiful, healthy smile you can be proud of.

 

We'll give you a reason to smile!


 

Our Office

  • 8202 Clearvista Parkway, Suite 4C, Indianapolis, IN 46256
 

Testimonials

  • Gerald B.
    “Approximately 4:45 p.m., a crown came completely out. I immediately called Dr. Lockhart’s office to see if he was available. He was so 15 minutes later; I walked into his office. I was seen immediately; the tooth was prepped and recemented. Less than a half-hour after the tooth came out, it was back in, and I was on my way to the Pacer game. Great job!”
    Gerald B.
  • Steve E.
    “I’ve had several teeth extracted, and can say unequivocally this was the easiest one to date. The tooth was out before I knew it, no muss, no fuss.”
    Steve E.
  • Jessica C.
    “I am never disappointed with Dr. Lockhart’s service. I have been seeing him for my dental care for a few years now and it seems that my dental health has only improved since I began seeing him. I value how straight forward and honest he is with his patients. I would recommend him to everyone!”
    Jessica C.
  • Linda A.
    “Everyone is professional and so friendly. They take the time to explain the procedures, and make you feel very comfortable in a very relaxed atmosphere. If you don’t like going to a dentist for whatever reason, I suggest you try Dr. Lockhart!”
    Linda A.
  • Karen P.
    “At the doctor’s recommendation, an old silver filling was replaced with enamel. This accomplished two things. It provided an opportunity to assess the health of the tooth-as it is a deep and old filling. And secondly it improved the visual of the mouth by having a filling material which blends with the tooth color. Though no further care is needed at this time, it is valuable to know what may be necessary going forward which eliminates the dreaded element of surprise in dental care. Dr. Lockhart and his staff create a comfortable, caring environment which puts the patient at ease while undergoing what might otherwise be an anxiety filled procedure. All aspects of the office visit were professional, efficient and most important of all – painless.”
    Karen P.
  • Joseph O.
    “Great environment, courteous friendly and professional staff. I look forward to my dental visits because Danelle is welcoming and focused on my dental health and Dr Lockhart is always attentive and clear in his care and explanations.”
    Joseph O.
  • Heather B.
    “Above and beyond! Our son broke off a tooth on A Tuesday evening. Dr. Lockhart and his staff are not scheduled to be in the office on Wednesdays. We nevertheless called the emergency number he provided first thing Wednesday morning. Dr. Lockhart promptly returned our call and we made arrangements to meet at the office. Dr. Lockhart was very thorough with his examination. He and McKenzie took great care of our son and got him fixed up. Always the highest level of care and customer service. THANK YOU!”
    Heather B.
  • Anne M.
    “I highly recommend Lockhart Dentistry to all my friends. After 30 years I finally made the decision to get crowns and braces. In less then 6 months, my treatment is over and I can smile with confidence. Thank you Dr. Lockhart, and your wonderful staff. I truly wonder why I waited so long!”
    Anne M.
  • Kyle C.
    “Always a great and efficient visit. Extremely caring and have seen amazing progress for not being in a long time!”
    Kyle C.
  • Lawrence M.
    “Great dentistry ! Top notch all around.“
    Lawrence M.
  • Gregg J.
    “Experience and Tech Savvy. Dr Lockhart has more experience and is more technologically savvy than any dentist I’ve been to in my 54 years.”
    Gregg J.
  • Cassie R.
    “Happy to have found a dentist in my neighborhood for my entire family!”
    Cassie R.
  • Don G.
    “Nice place to visit but don’t want to live there. I generally do not like surveys or questionnaires and am only answering this one because I like you.”
    Don G.
  • Linda M.
    “When I think of Lockhart Dentistry, the terms “kindness, promptness, professionalism, and effectiveness” come to mind.”
    Linda M.
  • Thomas H.
    “Lockhart Dentistry is a step above all others. Great enthusiastic staff that genuinely enjoy their jobs. Ingrid goes out of her way to make sure each visit is enjoyable and she is very thorough in explaining what she is doing throughout my examination. Every appointment I have had has been on schedule, very little time spent waiting in lobby, which is very important to me from a work and family perspective. I like the fact that they have email and text reminders too!!!”
    Thomas H.
  • Clarence H.
    “Best Long Term Dental Care. My wife and I have been patients of Dr. Lockhart for over 20 years. From routine bi-annual cleanings and checkups to implants, crowns and partial bridges that I’ve had through the years; Dr. Lockhart and his team have always provided the very best of care.”
    Clarence H.
  • Dee B.
    "Highly recommend! I’ve been. With Dr Lockhart 25+ years….since he was at 71st and Shadeland. I had some serious issues that Dr Lockhart and his staff have helped me overcome. I can’t say enough great things about them (I even got my husband to join me there). Thank you so much to Lockhart Dentistry."
    Dee B.
  • Joan M.
    Routine 6 month cleaning and check. Have been a patient of Lockhart Dentistry since Doc came to Indianapolis. The entire staff is friendly and caring and works hard to make sure you are comfortable no matter what service is being provided.
    Joan M.
  • Nicole B.
    "Great place, people are friendly and very nice. Dr. Lockhart always has an alternative or solution to my issues. I love Danielle! I always ask for her to do my cleaning. My teeth always feel extra clean."
    Nicole B.
  • Laurie P.
    Wonderful experience! Very thorough and friendly!
    Laurie P.
  • Deborah W.
    "Dr. Bruce and his staff are amazing, kind, very caring. They take care of you like one of their own!"
    Deborah W.