Procedures

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied and hardened with a special light, which ultimately "bonds" the material to the tooth to restore or improve person's smile.

When is Dental Bonding an option?

  • To repair decayed teeth (composite resins are used to fill cavities)
  • To repair chipped or cracked teeth
  • To improve the appearance of discolored teeth
  • To close spaces between teeth
  • To make teeth look longer
  • To change the shape of teeth
  • As a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings
  • To protect a portion of the tooth's root that has been exposed when gums recede

What are the advantages of Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is among the easiest and least expensive of cosmetic dental procedures. Unlike veneers and crowns, which are customized tooth coverings that must be manufactured in a lab, bonding usually can be done in one office visit unless several teeth are involved. Another advantage, compared with veneers and crowns, is that the least amount of tooth enamel is removed. Also, unless dental bonding is being performed to fill a cavity, anesthesia is usually not required.

What are the disadvantages of Dental Bonding?

Although the material used in dental bonding is somewhat stain resistant, it does not resist stains as well as crowns. Another disadvantage is that the bonding materials do not last as long nor are as strong as other restorative procedures, such as crowns, veneers, or fillings. Additionally, bonding materials can chip and break off the tooth.

What can i expect with this procedure?

Little advance preparation is needed for dental bonding. Anesthesia is often not necessary unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. Your dentist will use a shade guide to select a composite resin color that will closely match the color of your tooth. Next, the surface of the tooth will be roughened and a conditioning liquid applied. These procedures help the bonding material adhere to the tooth. The tooth-colored, putty-like resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed to the desired shape. An ultraviolet light or laser is then used to harden the material. After the material is hardened, your dentist will further trim and shape it, and polish it to match the sheen of the rest of the tooth surface.

How long does the procedure take?

Dental bonding takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth to complete.

About Dr. Thanos

Specialising in Pediatric Dentistry.

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Dr. Thanos was born in Athens, Greece. His first visit to the United States was in 1964 when he was invited as an American Field Service Exchange Student. He went on to attend Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania as a Fulbright Scholar, one of the highest academic honors a student can earn.

In 1971, Dr. Thanos received his dental degree from the University of Athens, Greece. For the next two years he continued advanced studies at the University of London, England where he specialized in pediatric dentistry at the Eastman Dental Hospital. In 1973, Dr. Thanos was a postdoctoral scholar at the UCLA School of Dentistry where he furthered his studies in biomaterials science and pediatric dentistry. He completed his fellowship and received certificates in both pediatric dentistry and cranio-facial genetics at UCLA Harbor Hospital.

In 1977, Dr. Thanos joined the faculty of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. He served as a chairman of the department of Advanced Pediatric Dentistry from 1979 to 1985. During that period, he initiated the Specialized Clinic of Esthetic Dentistry where he served as director until 1992.

Dr. Thanos is not only a gifted dentist, he is also a respected scientist in his field and has published numerous research monographs. He is considered a pioneer in the field of esthetic dentistry. He has been participating in the Torrance community for over thirty years.

About Dr. Dalis

Specialising in General and Cosmetic Dentistry.

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Dr. Dalis is a lifelong South Bay resident, having grown up in Torrance, with strong ties to the community. He attended the University of Southern California where he earned his undergraduate degree in exercise physiology. Upon graduation, he attended the USC School of Dentistry where he was awarded his certificate.

Dr. Dalis is trained in all aspects of dentistry including all the latest cosmetic treatments, implants, endodontics, and the utilization of digital X Ray technology. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association and the Western Los Angeles Dental Society. Dr. Dalis' frequent attendance of continuing education courses keeps him up to date on all the latest topics and procedures in the field of dentistry and oral care.

Dr. Dalis has lectured for the American Cancer Society in the areas of oral cancer and tobacco cessation. In addition, he served on the scientific health and advisory board of Redondo Union High School. In his free time, he enjoys relaxing, playing beach volleyball, hiking, and has a love for music, movies and travel.

Forms And Notices

Downloadable forms (perfect for completing before your visit to save time).

Intake Information

Patient Information and Insurance Data

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Notices

Prop 65 and other Legal Notices

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Pediatric Intake Forms

Patient Information For Children

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