What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is also sometimes referred to as composite bonding, cosmetic bonding, or tooth bonding. Bonding is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that involves the application of a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of a tooth. The resin is bonded to the tooth using a special adhesive, and then shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth. Dental bonding is a relatively simple and cost-effective way to improve the appearance of a tooth that is chipped, cracked, stained, or misshapen. Bonding can be completed in a single appointment.
Benefits of Dental Bonding
- Cost effective: composite bonding is a less expensive alternative to veneers that can achieve the same result, as far as masking flaws, chips, or discoloration.
- Quick and painless: Dental bonding can usually be completed in a single visit to the dentist’s office, and the procedure is typically painless. There is no need for anesthesia with cosmetic bonding.
- Natural Looking: The tooth-colored resin material used in dental bonding is designed to match the color of your natural teeth, making the bonding virtually indistinguishable from your real teeth.
- Semi-permanent: Veneers and crowns are permanent cosmetic treatments. However, with bonding, there is no need to file down or reshape the natural tooth underneath.
Dental Bonding FAQs
What aftercare do you recommend for dental bonding?
- Practice good oral hygiene at home, flossing and brushing with a soft bristled toothbrush. Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the bonding material. Cutting down on foods like coffee, tea or red wine can help reduce staining of both the bonding and your natural teeth.
How much does dental bonding cost?
- Dental bonding is a relatively inexpensive cosmetic option, starting at around $500 per tooth. The price varies depending on what exactly you are having done. If the bonding serves a purpose other than aesthetics, such as fixing a chipped or cracked tooth, your PPO insurance will likely contribute. We also offer financing to help make the cost more affordable for you.
Veneers vs. Dental Bonding: which is right for me?
- Veneers are also a great cosmetic solution for misshapen, damaged or discolored teeth. The biggest difference is that veneers require the natural tooth to be shaved before the veneer is placed, so the procedure is not reversible. Veneers are also more expensive and may last 20 years, while bonding may need to be adjusted after 10-15. Come in for a consultation and our doctor will recommend a personalized treatment plan for you.