
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding involves the use of composite resin, the same material used for composite fillings, to reshape and restore a tooth. Teeth that are chipped, cracked, or broken can be repaired through a process called Bonded Restoration, where the resin is built up to restore the tooth to its original condition. With proper care, this repair can last for many years.
Dental bonding is also a great way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your smile by reshaping teeth, correcting discolouration, and closing gaps without the need for veneers or orthodontics. It offers a minimally invasive, cost-effective solution to improve the appearance and function of your teeth.
How Does Dental Bonding Compare To Other Options?
There are various options available to restore your teeth and enhance your smile, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs. During your consultation, we’ll provide an in-depth overview of each option, along with their respective pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision. Here are some advantages of dental bonding compared to other treatments:
Low Upfront Cost
Advanced treatments like orthodontics and veneers can be costly due to their complexity and the extent of transformation they provide. For smaller cosmetic changes, dental bonding is a more affordable and straightforward alternative.
Ideal for Minor Repairs
While dental bonding is an excellent option for minor cosmetic alterations, such as repairing chips, cracks, or closing small gaps, more extensive smile makeovers may require a more comprehensive treatment plan. For significant transformations, dental veneers, crowns, or orthodontics may be a better fit.
The Dental Bonding Process
Dental bonding is a versatile procedure used to address both functional and cosmetic concerns with your teeth. Whether you’re looking to fix a chipped tooth or enhance the overall appearance of your smile, here’s how the process unfolds:
Preparing the Tooth
To start, a dental matrix (a thin plastic film) is placed between your teeth to protect the adjacent teeth from any preparation gel or composite resin. The dentist will then carefully clean and dry your tooth, applying a mildly acidic gel to roughen the surface, creating an ideal foundation for the bonding material to adhere securely.
Applying the Composite Resin
After the acidic gel is cleaned away and the tooth is dried, the composite resin is applied. The dentist will choose a shade that closely matches your natural teeth for a seamless, aesthetic result. The resin is applied in layers, with each layer being cured using a special blue light, ensuring optimal strength and durability.
Finishing Touches
Once your bite is checked and the bonding is complete, the dentist will polish the tooth to smooth any rough edges. The result is a tooth that blends perfectly with your natural teeth. Your dental chart will be updated to reflect the treatment, and the bonded tooth will be monitored during future check-ups to ensure it stays in great condition.
Cost of Dental Bonding in Calgary
Providing an accurate estimate for dental bonding can be difficult due to the variety of reasons it may be needed, and the specific requirements of your treatment. Typically, the cost for dental bonding per tooth ranges from $300 to $600 or more without insurance. However, most insurance providers cover dental bonding, especially when it’s necessary to repair a broken or damaged tooth. If covered by insurance, you can expect to pay approximately $60 to $120 out-of-pocket.
When determining the cost of your dental bonding treatment, we consider several key factors:
- Number of teeth requiring bonding
- Need for new X-rays
- Amount of composite resin needed
- Location of the teeth to be treated
- Current overall oral health
It’s important to note that a dentist cannot provide an exact quote over the phone. We encourage you to schedule an in-person consultation to receive a more accurate estimate, allowing you to make an informed decision based on your treatment needs and costs.
Contact Us Today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
During your consultation, we will thoroughly evaluate your oral health, including your teeth, gums, soft tissues, and bite to obtain a comprehensive understanding of your entire mouth’s appearance and function. Our primary objective is to gather information about your smile’s health and aesthetics, and most importantly, your desired outcome, to create a customized treatment plan that will meet your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lifespan of dental bonding can vary based on factors such as the type of bonding material used, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and other lifestyle choices. However, with proper care, dental bonding can last for several years before needing maintenance or replacement.
Yes, dental bonding is an excellent option for closing gaps between teeth. It can also improve the overall appearance of your smile by reshaping and smoothing the teeth for a more uniform look.
For the first 24-48 hours following the procedure, it’s best to avoid foods and beverages that can stain or discolour the bonding material, such as coffee, tea, or red wine. Additionally, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods during this time to prevent damaging or dislodging the bonding material.
No, dental bonding does not damage your teeth. It is a minimally invasive procedure that improves the appearance of your teeth. While it’s not a permanent solution, the bonding material can last for years with proper care. However, it may chip or break over time, so practicing good dental hygiene and avoiding harmful habits is essential to maintaining its longevity.
