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?
Numerous options exist to restore your teeth or improve your smile, and the ideal option will depend on your particular requirements. In your consultation, we will provide a comprehensive overview of each option, along with its advantages and disadvantages, to help you make an informed decision. Meanwhile, here are some of the advantages of dental bonding:
Low upfront cost
Advanced dental treatments like orthodontics and dental veneers are typically more expensive due to their complex nature, which can bring about significant transformations. Nevertheless, for minor cosmetic changes to a few teeth, dental bonding offers a straightforward and cost-effective alternative.
Ideal for minor repairs
It’s worth reiterating that for significant smile makeovers, a comprehensive treatment plan that may involve dental veneers, crowns, or orthodontics would be more appropriate. Nonetheless, for minor cosmetic alterations, dental bonding is the easiest and most suitable solution.
The Dental Bonding Process
Whether you’re getting dental bonding to restore a tooth or for purely aesthetic reasons the process is still the same. Here’s what you can expect at your dental bonding appointment:
Preparing the tooth
Initially, a dental matrix (a thin plastic film), will be placed between your teeth to safeguard the neighbouring teeth from any preparation gel or composite resin. Then, the dentist will meticulously clean and dry your tooth before applying a mildly acidic gel to roughen the surface and provide a foundation for the bonding material to adhere.
Applying the composite resin
After cleaning away the acidic gel and drying the tooth, the composite resin is applied, with the dentist selecting a shade that matches your natural teeth for a seamless result. The resin is layered and cured with a special blue light for optimal robustness and longevity.
Finishing touches
Once your bite is evaluated, your dental bonding process is complete, and the dentist will provide a final touch by polishing the tooth. The finished result will be a natural-looking and beautiful tooth that is nearly indistinguishable from the surrounding teeth. Your dental chart will be updated to reflect the treatment, and during future exams, the dentist will monitor the bonded tooth for any signs of wear and tear.
Cost Of Dental Bonding In Calgary
Providing a rough estimate for dental bonding is challenging due to the various reasons it is used, and your specific requirements must be evaluated after examining your teeth. However, typically, the cost of dental bonding per tooth ranges from $300 to $600 or more without insurance. Fortunately, most insurance providers will cover the expenses, particularly when it is necessary to repair a broken or damaged tooth. In such cases, you can expect to pay around $60 to $120 out of pocket with insurance coverage.
When we’re determining the cost of your dental bonding treatment we look at these important factors:
- Number of teeth requiring bonding
- Need for new x-rays
- Amount of composite resin required for treatment
- Location of the teeth requiring treatment
- Current overall oral health
It’s important to note that a dentist cannot provide you with a precise quote over the phone. We welcome you to schedule an in-person examination to obtain an accurate quote, enabling you to make an informed decision based on your final 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 longevity of dental bonding can vary depending on various factors, such as the type and extent of bonding material used, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and other lifestyle factors. However, with proper care, dental bonding can last for several years.
Yes, dental bonding can be used to close gaps between teeth and improve the appearance of a patient’s smile.
It’s best to avoid eating or drinking anything that can stain or discolor the bonding material, such as coffee, tea, or red wine, for the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. Additionally, patients should avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage or dislodge the bonding material during this timeframe.
No, dental bonding does not ruin teeth. It’s a minimally invasive procedure that can improve the appearance of teeth. However, it’s not a permanent solution and may need to be replaced over time. The bonding material can chip or break, so it’s important to practice good dental hygiene and avoid damaging habits.
