What does “Adhesive bonding” mean?
Prosthetic bonding is the process of preparing the surface of the tooth and restoration and then joining the two sides with an adhesive material. The surface treatment and fixation method vary depending on what material is attached.
Adhesion depends on the material
Glass ceramics and zirconia have different composition and surface properties. Distinguish between treatment on the tooth side and treatment on the inside of the prosthesis, and combine them according to the instructions for use of the corresponding materials and adhesives.
For example, acid etching may be used to create a microscopic texture on the bonding surface of glass ceramics, while particle abrasion may be used for zirconia. Bonding agents are then applied, with the specific combination determined by the product instructions.
What is checked before bonding?
We check not only the color and shape but also whether the prosthesis fits the teeth properly. Because the adhesive method depends on the material and type of restoration, simply choosing a strong adhesive cannot solve all conditions.
What is the relationship with resin bonding?
Composite bonding can also mean adding tooth-colored composite resin directly to a tooth to shape it. Bonding veneers such as ZERONATE and reshaping teeth with composite resin both involve adhesion, but their fabrication and restoration methods differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all ceramics attached the same way?
No. Pretreatment and adhesive materials vary depending on the composition of the ceramic and product-specific instructions.
Can I reattach a prosthesis that has fallen off?
First, check whether the prosthesis is intact and the cause of its dislodgement. If your tooth or prosthesis is damaged, rebonding alone may not be the solution.
Questions needed to understand prosthetic adhesion (bonding)
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Does “bonding” here mean attaching a restoration or reshaping a tooth with composite resin?
Explanation and evidenceDistinguishing which restoration is made by which method makes the meaning of the treatment description clear.
Cleveland Clinic · Dental Bonding - A choice suited to your condition
What fixation method is used for my prosthesis?
Explanation and evidenceLithium disilicate products also have different fixation methods applicable depending on the type of restoration and clinical conditions.
Ivoclar · IPS e.max CAD
Further reading and references
Further reading
References
- Ivoclar · IPS e.max CADivoclar.com (opens in a new tab)
- Cleveland Clinic · Dental Bondingmy.clevelandclinic.org (opens in a new tab)
- American Dental Association · Materials for Indirect Restorationsada.org (opens in a new tab)
- Ivoclar Pre-treatment of restorations before adhesive cementationivoclar.com (opens in a new tab)

