1. Price matters. Thinking about having a cosmetic dental procedure to beautify the look of your smile? While many dentists eagerly offer veneers to remedy ugly teeth, the price tag is off-putting. Bonding, a less expensive procedure uses adhesive material that hardens and bonds to the tooth—the end result, dramatically improved smile.

2. Advances in medical technology improve bonding results.Now in their “seventh generation,” bonding materials show more promising results. With the etch, prime, and bond components contained in one mixture, it creates a better, stronger bond to the tooth. And means less sensitivity afterwards.

3. Try on the new smile before buying. Ask the dentist to create a smile profile before deciding whether bonding is right for you. Want to change your shape? Whether elongating some teeth or toning down the Vampire teeth, dentists can artfully change teeth for the better. After taking a molding of your bite, the dentist designs a wax-like version of the new teeth. Try them on to gauge the new look. Say cheese—smile and see what you think.

4. Bonding drawbacks. Staining is a common issue. That means tea, coffee and red wine may dim your smile. Unlike love, bonding isn’t forever. Depending of the teeth, some people must re-bond the teeth every 10 to 15 years, or sooner.

By Elise Oberliesen on April 20th, 2010