What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding uses composite resin – the same material used for composite fillings – to shape a tooth. Teeth that are chipped, cracked or broken can be ‘built up’ with composite resin in a process called Bonded Restoration. This repair will restore the tooth to like-new condition and will last a long time with routine care. Dental bonding is also used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a smile by reshaping teeth, correcting colour and closing gaps without the need for veneers or orthodontics.
How does dental bonding compare to other options?
There are many different treatment options available for restoring your teeth or achieving your dream smile. The best option for you will depend on your specific needs and goals. During your appointment, we are happy to discuss all available options and the pros and cons of each, so you can make an informed decision. That said, here are some of the benefits of dental bonding:
Quick and painless
With fillings or dental veneers, some drilling is typically needed to prepare the tooth for treatment. This is rarely necessary with dental bonding. Very little, if any, of your natural tooth is removed in preparation, meaning the bonding procedure is almost always completely painless.
Low upfront cost
More extensive treatments such as dental veneers and orthodontics come with a higher price tag, and for good reason, since bigger, more dramatic changes call for a personalized treatment plan of greater complexity. However, for minor changes to a few teeth, dental bonding is a simple, cost-effective option.
Great for small repairs
It bears repeating, if you are envisioning extensive changes to your smile, you will benefit from a more complex treatment plan that may include dental veneers, crowns, or orthodontics. For minor changes, however, dental bonding is the simplest option available.
The dental bonding process
Whether you are getting dental bonding to restore a tooth or purely for cosmetic reasons, the process remains the same. Here is what to expect at your dental bonding appointment:
Preparing the tooth
First, neighbouring teeth are protected using a thin plastic film called a dental matrix. This matrix is placed between the teeth to shield the adjacent tooth from any stray preparation gel or composite resin. Next, your dentist carefully cleans and dries the tooth, then applies a mildly acidic gel for a few seconds to create a slightly rough surface for the bonding material to adhere to.
Applying the composite resin
Once the acidic gel is rinsed away and the tooth is dried again, the composite resin is applied. Your dentist selects a resin shade that matches your natural teeth for a seamless finish. The composite resin is applied in layers, with each layer cured using a special curing light for maximum strength and durability.
Finishing touches
After checking your bite, your dental bonding treatment is complete. As a final step, your dentist gives the tooth a quick polish for a smooth, natural finish. Your bonded tooth will look beautiful and blend in seamlessly, you may even forget which tooth was treated. We will note this in your dental chart, and during future checkups, your dentist will pay special attention to the bonded tooth to check for any wear over time.
Cost of a dental bonding in Toronto
Dental bonding is used for such a wide range of reasons that it is difficult to give a ballpark estimate without learning more about your needs and examining your teeth. That said, dental bonding typically costs approximately $300 to $600 or more per tooth without insurance. Most insurance companies cover dental bonding, especially when it is needed to restore a broken or damaged tooth. With insurance, you can expect to pay around $60 to $120 out of pocket.
When determining the cost of your dental bonding treatment, we consider these important factors:
- How many teeth need bonding.
- Whether any new x-rays are required.
- How much composite resin is needed to complete the treatment.
- Where the affected teeth are located in your mouth.
- Your current overall oral health.
Keep in mind, no dentist can provide an accurate quote over the phone. After an examination, we are happy to give you an accurate quote in person, so you can learn your final costs and make an informed decision.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and soft tissues, as well as 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 understand the full picture of your oral health and smile aesthetics, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
With proper care, dental bonding typically lasts 5 to 10 years before it may need touching up or replacing, depending on the location of the tooth and daily habits.
Dental bonding is considered a semi-permanent treatment, since the composite resin material can wear down or chip over time and may eventually need to be repaired or redone.
Yes, dental bonding is one of the most common and effective ways to repair a chipped or cracked tooth, restoring both its shape and natural appearance in a single visit.
Yes, composite resin used in dental bonding can stain over time from coffee, tea, or tobacco use. Good oral hygiene and avoiding staining foods can help maintain its appearance.
Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and attending routine dental checkups will help protect your bonded teeth and keep them looking their best for as long as possible.
Dental bonding can be a great option for minor cosmetic changes and is less invasive than veneers, though veneers may offer more durability for larger smile transformations.
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