If you have teeth with chips or gaps or if you find that your teeth are disclosure then your dentist may recommend dental bonding in order to help restore your smile. Here, our Brandon dentists share some information about dental bonding and what you should expect during the treatment.
What is dental bonding used to treat?
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental treatment that is used to repair minor dental concerns. The composite resin will be applied to your teeth, then it will be moulded and polished to blend in with your natural teeth.
The name dental bonding comes from the fact that the resin bonds to your teeth during the process.
In what situations would I be recommended dental bonding?
Dental bonding is generally considered a cosmetic dental service – to improve the appearance of chipped or discoloured teeth, to make teeth appear longer or change their shape or colour, or to close gaps between teeth.
If you have exposed gum, our dentist may also consider using dental bonding to restore your smile.
What can I expect during dental bonding?
The composite resin will be placed on your tooth in layers. Your dentist will then use a light to harden each layer.
After the last layer is hardened, the dentist shapes and polishes it to fit your tooth, this will create a tooth that mimics the appearance of your other natural teeth.
How long does it take to receive treatment with dental bonding?
Dental bonding usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth to complete. Unlike veneers, which are custom-made in a dental lab and thus require more time, the bonding process can most often be completed in one visit.
What are the costs associated with dental bonding?
If you are planning on receiving dental bonding then you may be wondering what the associated costs are and if it's worth it. Fortunately, dental bonding is an effective, relatively long-lasting cosmetic procedure. The cost of your dental bonding procedure will vary based on a number of different factors, including:
- Scope of work, where in the mouth your procedure is taking place and the size of the area to be bonded
- Insurance coverage - how much of the procedure will your insurance cover? (May depend on whether your issue is primarily cosmetic or structural)
- Your local area - costs may vary depending on which city your dentist is in, and which dental practice completes the procedure
How long can I expect the dental bonding to last?
Generally, we consider the composite resin to last anywhere from 4 to 8 years while we have had patients that have successfully gone more than 10 years before needing a touch-up.
How long the effects of dental bonding last can vary depending on your specific case (where in your mouth it’s applied) and how it’s maintained (excellent oral hygiene and attending your regularly scheduled dental visits is key).
To ensure your smile lasts as long as possible, we advise avoiding sugary or acidic foods, as these can wear on your teeth. Though fruit is good for your health, don't forget to brush and floss your teeth soon after eating them so bacteria or plaque do not have the chance to grow. Also refrain from chewing hard candy or ice, biting down too hard or grinding your teeth, since all of these can chip the bonding material.
Your dentist can touch up the composite resin and re-bond it over time if required.