What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding involves the use of composite resin—the same material used in composite fillings—to reshape and repair teeth. Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth can be restored by adding the composite resin in a process known as Bonded Restoration. This repair not only restores the tooth to its natural look but also provides lasting results with proper care.
How Does Dental Bonding Compare to Other Options?
There are several options for restoring your teeth or achieving the smile you desire, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs. During your appointment, we can discuss all your options, weighing the pros and cons of each, so you can make an informed decision. Here are some of the key benefits of dental bonding:
Quick and Painless
Unlike fillings, which often require drilling to prepare the tooth, dental bonding usually involves minimal, if any, removal of your natural tooth. This means the procedure is almost always painless and quick.
Low Upfront Cost
More complex treatments, like dental veneers or orthodontics, can be more expensive due to their detailed and personalized nature. However, for minor cosmetic changes or repairs, dental bonding is a more affordable and straightforward option.
Great for Small Repairs
Dental bonding is ideal for minor adjustments to your smile, such as repairing small chips or closing gaps. If you’re looking for more extensive changes, treatments like veneers, crowns, or orthodontics may be better suited to your needs, but for smaller repairs, dental bonding is often the simplest and most effective solution.
The Dental Bonding Process
Whether you’re receiving dental bonding to restore a damaged tooth or simply to enhance your smile, the process is the same. Here’s what you can expect during your dental bonding appointment:
Preparing the Tooth
To start, your neighboring teeth are protected with a thin film called a dental matrix. This matrix is placed between your teeth to prevent any stray gel or resin from affecting them. Next, the dentist will clean and dry your tooth thoroughly before applying a mild acidic gel. This gel creates a rough surface on the tooth to help the bonding material adhere securely.
Applying the Composite Resin
Once the acidic gel is removed and the tooth is dried, the dentist will apply a composite resin that matches the color of your natural teeth for a seamless finish. The resin is applied in layers, with each layer being hardened using a special blue light to ensure strength and durability.
Finishing Touches
After checking your bite to ensure everything feels just right, the dentist will give the bonded tooth a final polish. Your tooth will look natural and beautiful, and you might even forget which one was repaired. We’ll note the bonded tooth in your chart, and at future checkups, the dentist will pay special attention to it to monitor any potential wear and tear.
Cost of Dental Bonding in Tacoma
The cost of dental bonding can vary significantly based on your specific needs and the condition of your teeth. Generally, the cost ranges from $300 to $600 or more per tooth if you don’t have insurance. Most insurance plans do cover dental bonding, especially when it’s used to restore a broken or damaged tooth. With insurance, you can expect to pay around $60 to $120 out of pocket.
- How many teeth need to be bonded
- Whether new x-rays are required
- The amount of composite resin needed for the procedure
- The location of the affected teeth
- Your overall oral health
When determining the cost of your dental bonding treatment, we consider the following factors:
Keep in mind that no dentist can give you an accurate quote over the phone. After your examination, we’ll provide you with a detailed and accurate quote in person so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lifespan of dental bonding depends on factors like its location, your eating habits, and your overall oral hygiene routine. On average, dental bonding on front teeth can last anywhere from 4 to 10 years or more. If any wear and tear is noticed during your routine exams, additional composite resin can be applied to maintain its strength.
While dental bonding is not a permanent solution, it is long-lasting. With proper dental care, good eating habits, and regular checkups, dental bonding can last over a decade. If you notice signs of wear, your dentist can strengthen the bonding by adding more composite resin.
Bonding and veneers serve different purposes. Veneers are a better option for long-term results and for patients who want more dramatic changes to their smile. They offer a longer lifespan but come at a higher cost. Dental bonding is more affordable, ideal for minor cosmetic changes, and less invasive since less of the natural tooth needs to be altered.
Dental bonding does not damage your teeth. Your natural tooth remains mostly intact under the bonding. While the bonding may chip or wear over time, it can be easily repaired. One thing to note is that bonding doesn’t whiten with teeth whitening treatments, so it’s best to whiten your teeth before getting bonding, or have the bonding replaced to match your new tooth color afterward. If you’re concerned about durability, veneers or crowns are stronger alternatives that last longer.
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