Cosmetic bonding is a quick and straightforward process that can often be completed in a single dental visit. The steps typically include: Preparation: The dentist will select a shade of composite resin that closely matches your natural tooth color. In most cases, little to no preparation of the tooth is needed. The tooth's surface is lightly roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied to help the resin adhere. Application: The tooth-colored putty-like resin is applied to the tooth and carefully molded and sculpted into the desired shape. Hardening: A special ultraviolet (UV) light is used to quickly harden the resin, bonding it to the tooth. Finishing: The dentist will then trim, shape, and polish the bonded material until it is smooth and blends seamlessly with the rest of the tooth. Anesthesia is typically not required unless the bonding is being done to fill a cavity or the area being treated is near a nerve.