Dental bonding is a quick cosmetic procedure that can fix chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth. The dentist uses composite resin material that matches the color of your natural tooth.

A bonded tooth should not be bit or chewed on because the bonding is prone to chipping. Also, resin doesn’t resist staining as well as enamel or porcelain.

Cost

The dental bonding procedure is one of the most affordable options when it comes to enhancing or repairing your smile. The resin composite is sculpted onto the surface of your teeth, and once it sets, you will be able to chew and speak normally without feeling any pain or sensitivity. The whole treatment typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes and is performed without the need for a local anesthetic.

The cost of the procedure is determined by a few key factors, including the amount of tooth structure that needs to be repaired or replaced. Small chips and cracks will require a thin layer of resin, while more extensive damage or cosmetic changes may necessitate more substantial reshaping or recoloring.

If your insurance plan does not cover tooth bonding, you can explore alternative financial solutions such as Health Savings or Flexible Spending Accounts to help offset the costs of this treatment. With proper care, dental bonding can last for up to ten years.

Procedure

Dental bonding is a quick and simple procedure that can improve the appearance of your smile. It is less invasive than other cosmetic treatments such as veneers and crowns. It is also cheaper than these other treatments. However, it is less durable than natural teeth and is more susceptible to staining.

Your dentist will use a shade guide to select a composite resin color that closely matches your natural tooth enamel. Then, they prepare the surface by roughening it and applying a conditioning liquid. This will make it easier for the bonding material to stick.

Before you undergo a dental bonding treatment, check your insurance policy to see what coverage it offers. Your provider will often have a portal where you can check your specific policy details, including deductibles and co-pays. You should also commit to good oral health habits, like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash regularly. These will help your bonded resin last longer and prevent stains.

Materials

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry option that uses composite resin material to repair and improve the appearance of teeth. It is often used to correct cracks and chips, replace old silver dental fillings, or protect exposed tooth roots due to receding gums. It can also be used to reshape and whiten teeth, and close gaps between them.

The dentist chooses a shade of composite resin to match the patient’s natural tooth color, and little advance preparation is needed. The surface of the tooth is roughened and conditioned to aid adhesion, and then the putty-like bonding material is applied in layers and sculpted appropriately before being hardened with a curing light.

Although composite resin is strong enough to withstand normal chewing pressure, it is not as durable as porcelain or enamel, and is more likely to chip or discolor over time. It is important to avoid biting into ice or hard candies, and keep up with twice-daily brushing and daily flossing to prevent damage. Regular visits to the dentist are also recommended, as they can inspect and repair the bonded material if necessary.

Maintenance

Bonding is a safe and affordable option for repairing minor chipped or cracked teeth. It does not require anesthesia and is less invasive than other treatments, such as porcelain veneers. However, it is important to understand the limitations of this procedure and its aftercare.

To maintain the integrity of your dental bonding, you must practice good oral hygiene habits and avoid staining substances such as tobacco or coffee. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily will help to keep your teeth healthy and your bonding intact. You should also refrain from biting or chewing hard objects and use a mouthguard to prevent bruxism, which can damage the bonded surface of your teeth.

Regularly discussing your treatment with your dentist can help you to detect signs of deterioration and repair them promptly. For instance, discolouration or increased sensitivity may indicate that it is time for a touch-up or replacement of the bonding material.