What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a versatile technique that uses composite resin to improve and reshape teeth. It can effectively enhance the look of a smile by correcting discoloration, closing gaps, and adjusting the shape of teeth, eliminating the need for veneers or orthodontic treatments. This method also rebuilds and restores chipped, cracked, or broken teeth to their original condition through a process known as Bonded Restoration. These repairs are durable and can last a long time with proper care.
How Does Dental Bonding Compare to Other Options?
When it comes to restoring your teeth or achieving your ideal smile, various options are available, each suited to different needs. During your appointment, we will gladly discuss all your choices, outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each, so you can make an informed decision. Here are some benefits of dental bonding:
Quick and Painless
Unlike fillings or dental veneers, which often require drilling to prepare the tooth, dental bonding typically does not. Minimal, if any, natural tooth structure needs to be removed, making the bonding process nearly painless.
Low Upfront Cost
Dental bonding is an affordable solution for minor cosmetic changes to your teeth. Unlike veneers and orthodontics, which are more expensive due to their complexity and personalized treatment plans, dental bonding offers a cost-effective alternative for simple adjustments.
Great for Small Repairs
For minor cosmetic adjustments, dental bonding is the simplest and most effective option. While extensive smile makeovers may require more complex treatments like veneers, crowns, or orthodontics, dental bonding excels at making small repairs and enhancements quickly and efficiently.
The Dental Bonding Process
The steps involved in dental bonding are the same whether you’re aiming to restore a tooth or enhance its appearance. Here’s what you can anticipate during your dental bonding visit:
Preparing the Tooth
Initially, a thin plastic film called a dental matrix is placed between your teeth to protect the neighbouring teeth from any stray preparation gel or composite resin. The dentist will then clean and dry your tooth thoroughly before applying a mildly acidic gel for a few seconds. This gel creates a slightly rough surface, allowing the bonding material to adhere better.
Applying the Composite Resin
The dentist begins by selecting a resin that matches the colour of your natural teeth for a seamless finish. After the acidic gel is rinsed away and the tooth is dried, the composite resin is applied in layers. Each layer is then hardened with a special blue light to ensure optimal strength and durability.
Finishing Touches
The dentist will polish the tooth to give it a smooth, natural appearance. After confirming that your bite is correctly aligned, the bonding process is complete. The bonded tooth will look so seamless that you might forget which one was treated. We’ll note the procedure in your chart, and at future check-ups, the dentist will closely monitor the bonded tooth for any signs of wear or damage.
Cost of Dental Bonding in North York
The expense for dental bonding can differ greatly depending on the specific needs and condition of your teeth, making it hard to provide a precise estimate without an examination. Generally, without insurance, the cost is between $300 and $600 or more per tooth. Fortunately, many insurance plans cover dental bonding, especially for repairing damaged or broken teeth. With insurance, the out-of-pocket cost is typically around $60 to $120.
- The number of teeth needing bonding
- The necessity of any new x-rays
- The amount of composite resin required
- The location of the teeth in your mouth
- Your overall oral health condition
We consider several important factors when determining the cost of your dental bonding treatment:
We will provide you with a detailed in-person estimate after a comprehensive examination. No dentist can offer an exact quote over the phone. This ensures you understand the final costs and can make an informed decision.
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
The longevity of dental bonding on front teeth varies, typically lasting between 4 to 10 years or more. This depends on factors such as the exact location of the bonding, your eating habits, and your overall oral hygiene routine. During routine exams, if the dentist notices any wear and tear, additional composite resin can be applied to maintain the strength of your dental bonding.
While dental bonding is highly durable, it is not considered a permanent solution. With consistent dental care, good dietary practices, and regular check-ups, dental bonding can typically last for more than a decade. If wear and tear occurs, additional composite resin can be applied to reinforce the bonding.
Dental veneers and bonding are distinct procedures offering different benefits. Veneers are superior for long-term results and ideal for patients seeking significant smile enhancements. They require more tooth alteration but offer durability. In contrast, bonding is more cost-effective and less invasive, suitable for minor changes with a shorter lifespan.
Preserving nearly all of your natural tooth structure, dental bonding typically presents minimal risks to your teeth. While the bonding material itself can chip or break over time, it is easily repairable. A common concern is that bonded teeth do not respond to teeth whitening treatments. If you plan to whiten your teeth, it’s advisable to do so before bonding or consider replacing the bonding afterward to match your whitened teeth. For those prioritizing durability, dental veneers or crowns, which offer greater strength and longevity, may be preferable alternatives.
To maintain dental bonding, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Avoid biting on hard objects or using your teeth to open packaging to prevent damage.
While dental bonding is versatile, it may not be suitable for everyone or every dental issue. Your dentist can assess your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment, whether it’s bonding, veneers, crowns, or another option.
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