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Bonding/White Fillings
A bonding is a composite resin that is used as an alternative to amalgams and veneers. This is an excellent cosmetic option for those patients who do not want the look of silver in their mouths and do not want the expense of veneers. Bondings can be used on teeth that are decayed, cracked, or stained.
Procedure
The bonding procedure is usually completed in one visit. The first step is to remove the decayed or unsightly portion of the tooth. The tooth is then etched with a liquid or gel and a bonding agent is then applied. This will allow the composite resin to be placed in the prepared tooth. The resin is then trimmed and polished, leaving you with a beautifully sculpted, natural-looking restoration.
Bonding Durability
Although composite resins are cosmetically pleasing and easily placed, their durability is not as strong as other types of restorations. These resins typically last from 4-7 years before they begin to chip and wear away. When this happens, the restoration will need to be replaced.
Insurance Company Information
Because of the controversy about silver (mercury containing) fillings we rarely place silver (amalgam) fillings anymore. However, some insurance companies refuse to pay for white (composite) fillings in posterioir (back) teeth. Other insurance companies will allow their silver filling reimbursement for white fillings in back teeth. And some enlightened insurance companies will pay for white fillings in back teeth. We cannot know which companies will pay and which will not. This is your obligation to know what your insurance plan allows. We will place the filling which is the best for the circumstance.
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