Dental bonding is a cost-effective solution for correcting or restoring damaged teeth due to decay. This damage may include discolored, chipped, or cracked teeth. This cosmetic dental procedure, also known as tooth bonding, can change the shape of your teeth, close gaps, and protect teeth that have exposed roots.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure where composite resin is placed and molded onto your tooth. The composite bonding material is tooth-colored, so it blends in seamlessly with your existing teeth that are not being bonded.
For some, teeth bonding is necessary to correct dental issues such as tooth decay and cracked teeth. However, it may be used for minor cosmetic reasons as well. Commonly used to improve discolored teeth, dental bonding may be chosen by a patient because it is cheaper than porcelain veneers and crowns.
Dental Bonding Cost
The cost of bonding greatly depends on the number of teeth you choose to have bonded. The average price of dental bonding is $300 to $600 per tooth. If you need dental bonding due to tooth decay or a structural issue, you may not have to pay out of pocket as your dental insurance will likely cover the cost. Check with your provider before the procedure for more information.
When compared to veneers and crowns, dental bonding is the most cost-effective solution. In comparison, veneers and crowns can cost up to $3,000 per tooth. However, it’s possible your dental bonding may cost more depending on the cost of living in your area, their expertise, and how extensive your procedure is.
The Procedure
The tooth bonding procedure can usually be completed in a single visit to the dentist’s office, even if you are having multiple teeth bonded. Anesthesia is generally unnecessary, making it easy to drive home after your procedure.
First, our dentist will select a tooth-colored composite to match the natural color of the teeth surrounding the bonded tooth. Next, they will prep your tooth by ensuring it is cleaned thoroughly.
The surface of the tooth is then roughened in preparation for the composite resin. At this time, a conditioning liquid will be applied, which will aid the bonding material as it sticks to your tooth.
Once your tooth has been prepped, our dentist will apply the composite bonding material to your tooth. After shaping and molding the material to your tooth, a special light will be used to harden the bonded material onto your tooth through UV rays. After the UV light is used, the material will be set, allowing our dentist to polish your tooth for a final finish.
After Care
Schedule regular dental cleaning appointments every six months to prevent gingivitis, plaque buildup, and cavities. Taking care of your teeth is already crucial for your health. When you have tooth bonding, it’s just as important to floss and brush your teeth twice a day so your bonded teeth will remain beautiful and look like new.
A few things you should avoid are red wine, coffee, and tea, as they may stain your bonded teeth. Avoid these beverages, especially in the first 48 hours after having your teeth bonded. If you do drink them, brush your teeth soon after consumption.
Cigarette smoke will also stain your bonded teeth. If you are a smoker, talk to your dentist about what other options may be available.
Dental bonding can also be affected by nail-biting. If you bite your nails, you should make a plan upfront to break this habit if you want to get bonding. We also recommend avoiding hard or sticky candies and foods such as caramels, jerky, milk duds, nuts, raw carrots, and apples. Fruits that easily stain your teeth should be avoided as well.
With proper care, your dental bonding may last up to seven years. Are you looking for a cosmetic dentist to change your smile through dental bonding? Please contact our team today to schedule an appointment with our dentist!
The statements on this blog are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The author of the blog is contracted third-party writer. East Valley Dental Professionals LLC does not in any way guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any message and will not be held responsible for the content of any message. Always consult your dentist or your other personal physicians for specific medical advice.
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Dr. Smith and our Dobson Ranch team can talk through your options at your next visit.
