What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding uses composite resin to reshape and repair teeth, restoring them to a like-new condition. It is an effective and long-lasting solution for chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. Dental bonding also enhances the smile’s aesthetics by addressing colour issues, reshaping teeth, and closing gaps without requiring veneers or orthodontics.
How Does Dental Bonding Compare To Other Options?
When it comes to restoring your teeth or achieving your desired smile, various options are available.
The best choice for you depends on your specific needs, which we can discuss during your appointment. We will provide a thorough overview of each option, including their advantages and disadvantages, enabling you to make an informed decision.
However, here are some of the benefits associated with dental bonding:
Quick and painless
Unlike fillings or dental veneers, dental bonding typically requires minimal to no drilling or removal of natural tooth structure. This makes the bonding procedure nearly painless, as very little, if any, of your natural tooth needs to be removed during preparation.
Low upfront cost
Extensive treatments like dental veneers and orthodontics tend to be more expensive due to their personalized and complex nature, which is necessary for significant transformations. However, for minor changes involving a few teeth, dental bonding offers a simple and cost-effective treatment option.
Great for small repairs
It is important to emphasize that if you have ambitious goals for transforming your smile, a comprehensive treatment plan involving dental veneers, crowns, or orthodontics may be more appropriate. However, for minor changes, dental bonding stands as the simplest and most straightforward solution.
The Dental Bonding Process
Regardless of whether you choose dental bonding for restorative purposes or purely cosmetic reasons, the process remains consistent. Here is an overview of what you can expect during your dental bonding appointment:
Preparing the tooth
During the dental bonding procedure, your neighbouring teeth are safeguarded using a dental matrix, a thin plastic film placed between your teeth to shield them from any excess preparation gel or composite resin. Subsequently, your tooth is meticulously cleaned and dried by the dentist. A mildly acidic gel is then applied for a brief duration to create a rough surface, promoting optimal adherence of the bonding material.
Applying the composite resin
After the acidic gel is removed and the tooth is dried again, the dentist proceeds to apply the composite resin. The resin is carefully chosen to match the colour of your teeth, ensuring a natural-looking result. It is applied in layers, with each layer being cured using a specialized blue light. This curing process enhances the strength and durability of the bonding, providing optimal outcomes.
Finishing touches
Following the assessment of your bite, the dental bonding procedure is considered complete. As a final step, the dentist will give your tooth a swift polish, resulting in a beautiful and natural appearance. You may find it difficult to distinguish the repaired tooth from the rest. We will make a note in your dental chart, and during future exams, the dentist will pay special attention to the bonded tooth, ensuring its condition and promptly addressing any signs of wear or damage.
Cost Of Dental Bonding
The cost of dental bonding can vary widely based on individual needs and the condition of the teeth. Without insurance, dental bonding typically ranges from $300 to $600 or more per tooth. Most insurance plans cover dental bonding, particularly for restoring broken or damaged teeth. With insurance, out-of-pocket costs usually range from $60 to $120. To obtain an accurate estimate, it is recommended to consult with a dentist after a thorough examination.
When we’re determining the cost of your dental bonding treatment we look at these important factors:
- How many teeth you need bonded
- Whether or not any new x-rays are required
- How much composite resin will be needed to complete the treatment
- Where the teeth in question are located in your mouth
- Your current overall oral health
Please note that an accurate quote for dental bonding cannot be provided over the phone. We would be delighted to offer you an accurate quote in person after conducting an examination. This will allow you to determine the final costs and make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental bonding is a procedure that uses composite resin to repair or enhance teeth. It differs from other procedures as it requires minimal tooth preparation and can be completed in a single visit.
Yes, dental bonding is a suitable option for addressing chipped or discoloured teeth. It can effectively restore the appearance and function of these teeth.
Dental bonding can last several years with proper care. However, it may require touch-ups or replacement over time, depending on factors such as oral habits and maintenance.
Dental bonding is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing a natural-looking result. The resin is matched to the colour of your teeth for an aesthetically pleasing outcome.
The cost of dental bonding can vary depending on factors such as the number of teeth treated and the complexity of the case. Insurance coverage for dental bonding varies among providers and plans, so it’s best to consult with your insurance company for specific coverage details.