Dental bonding (also known as composite bonding) is a cosmetic dental procedure for restoring broken, cracked, or chipped teeth through a process called Bonded Restoration. This dental restoration employs the use of composite resin, the same durable, natural-looking material used in composite tooth fillings. Composite resin is made from a combination of non-toxic minerals and resin that work together to create a lasting bond that can easily be matched to the exact colour of teeth, making it an ideal choice for cosmetic dentistry.
Prior to commencing the bonding procedure, a delicate layer of plastic known as a dental matrix is administered to the neighbouring teeth. This dental matrix serves as a shield, safeguarding the teeth against any inadvertent contact with preparation gel or composite resin. Subsequent to applying the matrix, the dentist meticulously cleans and dries the tooth, preparing it for the next step. A mildly acidic preparation gel is then applied, which generates a textured surface on the tooth. This textured surface facilitates enhanced adhesion for the bonding material.
After the removal of the acidic gel and subsequent drying of the tooth, the composite resin is administered. Your dentist will select a resin that precisely matches the colour of your teeth, ensuring a lifelike outcome. The composite resin is layered onto the tooth, with each layer being cured using a specialized blue light. This curing process enhances the resin’s robustness and resilience to the fullest extent.
Upon the successful curing of the bond, the dentist administers a swift polish to the tooth, adding a final flourish. Following the conclusion of the procedure, the dental bond will exhibit such a natural appearance that you might even overlook which tooth underwent repair. A record will be made in your records, and during your forthcoming check-ups, the dentist will dedicate extra attention to the tooth treated with composite bonding, ensuring the detection of any signs of wear and tear.
Dental bonding is used for such a wide variety of reasons that it is difficult to provide a ballpark estimate without learning more about your needs and examining your teeth. That being said, typically, it costs approximately $300 to $600 or more per tooth without insurance. Most insurance companies will cover dental bonding, especially if it’s needed to restore a broken or damaged tooth. With insurance, you can expect to pay somewhere around $60 to $120 out of pocket.
The longevity of dental bonding, spanning from 4 to 10 years or possibly more, hinges on factors like the specific placement of the bond, your dietary patterns, and overall oral hygiene practices. Should your regular dental check-ups reveal signs of wear, your dentist can reinforce the dental bonding by adding additional layers of composite resin, thereby ensuring its continued strength.
While not a permanent fix, bonding proves to be an enduring solution. With consistent dental care, prudent dietary choices, and regular check-ups, dental bonding can maintain its integrity for over a decade. Should any indications of wear emerge, reinforcing the bonding is achievable by applying supplementary layers of composite resin.
These procedures are quite distinct. Dental veneers offer a more enduring choice, particularly suitable for individuals aiming to effect substantial or pronounced transformations in their smile. In contrast, dental bonding boasts a shorter duration of effectiveness but stands as a cost-effective alternative for minor alterations. It also entails a lesser degree of invasiveness, as it necessitates minimal alteration to the natural tooth structure.
Dental bonding carries minimal inherent risks. Your natural tooth remains virtually untouched, if not entirely, beneath the bonding. Although the bonding material might experience chipping or breakage over time, these issues can be readily rectified through repair. A common concern voiced by some patients pertains to dental bonding’s resistance to whitening treatments. If you’re contemplating dental bonding, it could be prudent to undergo teeth whitening beforehand or opt to have the bonding replaced to match your natural teeth following a whitening procedure. Should durability be a paramount concern, exploring options such as dental veneers or crowns might be worthwhile, as these alternatives offer greater strength and longevity.
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure where a tooth-coloured resin is applied and adhered to the teeth to improve the appearance of the smile. This resin is then shaped and polished to look natural.
Dental bonding is generally less expensive than other cosmetic treatments like veneers or crowns. However, the cost can vary depending on the dentist’s expertise, geographic location, and the extent of the procedure.
No, bonded teeth do not require special care. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are generally sufficient. However, it’s best to avoid habits such as chewing on ice or hard foods that can chip the bonding material.
