Treatments

Cosmetic Bonding for Gaps and Chips in Burien, WA

Small gaps between your teeth or unsightly chips from everyday wear can significantly impact your confidence when you smile. These common dental concerns affect countless people who find themselves covering their mouths during conversations or avoiding photos altogether.

At Burien Signature Dentistry, Dr. Andy Kim understands how these seemingly minor imperfections can have a major impact on your daily life. Our cosmetic bonding treatments offer a quick, affordable solution that can transform your smile in just one visit, helping you rediscover the confidence to share your smile freely with family, friends, and colleagues throughout the Burien community.

What Is Cosmetic Bonding?

Cosmetic bonding is a versatile dental procedure that uses tooth-colored composite resin material to repair chips, close gaps, and reshape teeth. The composite material is carefully matched to your natural tooth color and skillfully applied to the affected areas. Once shaped and polished, the bonding becomes virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

This conservative treatment preserves your existing tooth structure while delivering immediate aesthetic improvements. Unlike veneers or crowns, bonding typically requires minimal or no removal of healthy tooth enamel, making it an excellent first-line treatment for many cosmetic concerns.

Benefits of Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding offers numerous advantages for patients seeking smile enhancement. The procedure is completed in a single appointment, eliminating the need for multiple visits or temporary restorations. The composite resin material bonds directly to your tooth structure, creating a strong, durable repair that can last several years with proper care.

The treatment is also highly cost-effective compared to other cosmetic options. Since bonding requires minimal tooth preparation, it’s often reversible, giving you flexibility for future treatment decisions. The natural-looking results blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, creating a harmonious, beautiful smile.

Conditions Treated with Cosmetic Bonding

Closing Gaps Between Teeth

Small to moderate gaps between teeth can be effectively closed using cosmetic bonding. The composite material is carefully applied to the sides of adjacent teeth, gradually building up the surfaces until the gap disappears. This approach works particularly well for gaps in the front teeth where aesthetics are most important.

Repairing Chipped Teeth

Chips from accidents, sports injuries, or biting hard objects can be seamlessly repaired with bonding. The composite material is layered and shaped to restore the tooth’s original contour. Whether you have a small chip at the edge of a tooth or a more significant fracture, bonding can restore both function and appearance.

Additional Applications

Beyond gaps and chips, cosmetic bonding can address various other concerns. Minor tooth discoloration that doesn’t respond well to teeth whitening can often be covered with bonding. Slightly misshapen or undersized teeth can be enhanced to create better proportion and symmetry within your smile.

The Cosmetic Bonding Process

Initial Consultation and Planning

Dr. Andy Kim begins with a thorough examination of your teeth and discussion of your aesthetic goals. Digital photos may be taken to help plan the treatment and show you the expected results. The shade of composite resin is carefully selected to match your natural teeth perfectly.

Treatment Procedure

The bonding procedure typically requires no anesthesia unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. The tooth surface is roughened and coated with a conditioning liquid to help the bonding material adhere properly. The composite resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape.

A special light hardens the material, after which Dr. Kim further trims, shapes, and polishes the bonded area until it matches the sheen of the rest of your teeth. The entire process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Caring for bonded teeth requires the same oral hygiene practices as your natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups help maintain both the bonding material and your overall oral health. While bonding material is durable, it can chip or stain over time, particularly if exposed to coffee, tea, or tobacco products.

Avoiding habits like nail biting, pen chewing, or using your teeth as tools helps extend the life of your bonding. With proper care, cosmetic bonding typically lasts three to seven years before requiring touch-ups or replacement.

Why Choose Burien Signature Dentistry for Cosmetic Bonding

Dr. Andy Kim graduated from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine in 2017 and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry program, gaining extensive experience in cosmetic procedures. His passion for providing quality dental care extends to creating positive experiences for both patients and staff in our welcoming Burien location.

Our practice accepts all major PPO insurance plans and offers Cherry financing to make your cosmetic bonding treatment affordable and accessible. We understand that dental emergencies and aesthetic concerns can’t always wait, which is why we also provide emergency dentistry services when unexpected damage occurs to your smile.

Transform Your Smile Today

Don’t let gaps or chips keep you from sharing your smile with confidence. Cosmetic bonding offers a simple, effective solution that can dramatically improve your appearance in just one visit. Dr. Andy Kim and our experienced team at Burien Signature Dentistry are ready to help you achieve the beautiful, natural-looking results you deserve. Contact us today at (206) 246-3222 or schedule your consultation online to discover how cosmetic bonding can enhance your smile.