The term “dental bonding” describes two very different procedures within dentistry: attaching medical devices to the teeth and performing cosmetic restorations. Both rely on adhesive materials and a similar physical process, but they serve distinct purposes and are typically performed by different dental specialists. Understanding the context clarifies which professional is responsible for which procedure.
How Orthodontists Use Adhesives
Orthodontists routinely perform a type of bonding that is strictly functional, involving the attachment of appliances like braces to the tooth surface. This process relies on a precise adhesive system to ensure the brackets remain firmly in place throughout the course of treatment. Before application, the tooth enamel is prepared using etching to create microscopic pores for mechanical retention.
A composite resin adhesive is then used to affix the bracket base to the tooth. A specialized curing light hardens the resin, permanently securing the appliance. This procedure is necessary for the mechanics of tooth movement, as the fixed appliances require a strong, durable bond to withstand the forces applied by the archwires.
What Cosmetic Bonding Involves
The other meaning of “bonding” is a cosmetic or restorative procedure that uses a tooth-colored composite resin to improve the appearance of the teeth. The resin is shaded to match the surrounding enamel and is used to repair chipped teeth, close small gaps, change tooth shape, or mask discoloration.
The dentist applies the material directly to the tooth, where it is molded and sculpted to achieve the desired contour. After shaping, a curing light hardens the material, and the final step involves polishing the resin to create a smooth, natural-looking surface. This procedure is typically performed by a general or cosmetic dentist, often after orthodontic treatment has aligned the teeth.
Determining the Right Dental Professional
The main difference between the two fields lies in their specialized focus and scope of practice. Orthodontists are specialists who complete two to four years of additional training focused solely on the alignment of teeth, the correction of bite issues, and the guidance of jaw development. Their role in bonding is limited to the attachment and removal of appliances necessary for tooth movement.
General dentists function as the primary care providers for oral health, handling routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and restorative procedures. Cosmetic bonding, which involves shaping and coloring the tooth for aesthetic improvement, falls under the general dentist’s scope of practice. It is common for an orthodontist to align the teeth first and then refer the patient back to their general dentist to fix minor cosmetic issues with bonding.