What Is Dental Bonding?
Composite resin, the material commonly used for composite fillings, is utilized in dental bonding to reshape teeth. By employing this process known as Bonded Restoration, teeth that are chipped, cracked, or broken can be rebuilt using composite resin. This restorative procedure effectively returns the tooth to its original condition and can offer long-lasting results with regular maintenance. Additionally, dental bonding serves as a cosmetic solution for enhancing the visual attractiveness of a smile. It allows for teeth reshaping, colour correction, and gap closure without resorting to veneers or orthodontics.
In What Ways Does Dental Bonding Differ From Alternative Options?
When it comes to restoring your teeth or achieving your desired smile, there is a wide array of options to choose from. The most suitable choices for you will be determined by your individual requirements. During your appointment, we will gladly provide a comprehensive discussion on all available options, outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each. This will enable you to make a well-informed decision. With that said, here are several advantages of dental bonding to consider:
Quick and painless
Unlike fillings or dental veneers, dental bonding typically requires minimal to no drilling in order to prepare the tooth for treatment. As a result, the bonding process is generally painless, as very little, if any, of your natural tooth structure needs to be removed beforehand.
Low upfront cost
Compared to more extensive treatments like dental veneers and orthodontics, dental bonding is a more affordable option. The higher price associated with comprehensive treatments reflects the need for personalized plans and complex procedures to achieve significant changes. However, when it comes to minor alterations on a few teeth, dental bonding offers a straightforward and cost-effective solution.
Great for small repairs
It’s worth emphasizing that if you have ambitious plans for significant smile transformations, a comprehensive treatment plan involving dental veneers, crowns, or orthodontics would be beneficial. However, for minor changes, dental bonding remains the simplest and most straightforward solution at your disposal.
The Dental Bonding Process
Regardless of whether you require dental bonding for restorative purposes or purely cosmetic reasons, the process remains consistent. During your dental bonding appointment, you can anticipate the following procedure:
Preparing the tooth
Firstly, your neighbouring teeth are safeguarded with a thin film of plastic known as a dental matrix. This matrix is placed between your teeth to shield the adjacent tooth from any stray preparation gel or composite resin. Subsequently, the dentist will meticulously clean and dry your tooth, followed by the application of a mildly acidic gel for a few seconds. This gel aids in creating a rough surface on which the bonding material can securely adhere.
Applying the composite resin
After the removal of the acidic gel and thorough drying of the tooth, the composite resin is carefully applied. The dentist will select a resin shade that closely matches your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance. The application of the composite resin involves layering it onto the tooth, and each layer is meticulously cured using a special blue light. This curing process ensures optimal strength and durability for the bonded restoration.
Finishing touches
Once your bite has been examined and adjusted if necessary, the dental bonding procedure is considered finished. As a final step, the dentist will give your tooth a gentle polish, leaving it with a beautiful and natural appearance. In fact, you may even find it difficult to distinguish the repaired tooth from the rest. A record of the bonding treatment will be documented in your dental chart, and during future examinations, the dentist will pay special attention to the bonded tooth to ensure it remains free from any signs of wear and tear.
Cost Of Dental Bonding In Ajax
Due to the diverse range of purposes for which dental bonding is utilized, it is challenging to provide a general estimate without obtaining further information about your specific requirements and conducting a thorough examination of your teeth. However, as a rough guideline, the cost of dental bonding typically ranges from $300 to $600 or more per tooth without insurance coverage. Fortunately, many insurance companies offer coverage for dental bonding, particularly when it is necessary to restore a broken or damaged tooth. With insurance, your out-of-pocket expenses are likely to be around $60 to $120.
When assessing the cost of your dental bonding treatment, several crucial factors are taken into consideration, including:
- The number of teeth that require bonding.
- The necessity for any new x-rays.
- The amount of composite resin required to complete the treatment.
- The specific location of the teeth within your mouth.
- Your existing overall oral health.
Kindly note that an accurate quote for your dental treatment cannot be provided over the phone. We encourage you to schedule an examination to receive an in-person assessment and a precise quote, enabling you to make an informed decision based on your final costs.
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.
Winner of the Three Best Rated Award
Dr. Asad Hasan is the winner of the 3 Best Rated award for Best Dentists in Ajax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental bonding is primarily used to address issues such as chips, cracks, and gaps in teeth, as well as to enhance their appearance. However, dental bonding material itself does not whiten or change the colour of natural teeth. If you desire a whiter smile, professional teeth whitening treatments may be more appropriate.
Dental bonding is not considered a permanent dental treatment. While it can provide long-lasting results, the durability of dental bonding can vary depending on several factors, such as oral hygiene practices, dietary habits, and the location of the bonded tooth. On average, dental bonding can last several years before requiring touch-ups or replacement.
The choice between dental bonding and veneers depends on factors like budget, desired outcome, and the extent of dental needs. Bonding is more affordable but less durable, while veneers offer superior aesthetics and durability at a higher cost. Consultation with a dentist will help determine the best option for you.
Dental bonding poses minimal risks, as your natural tooth remains mostly intact beneath the bonding material. Although the bonding itself may experience chipping or breakage over time, it can be easily repaired. It’s worth noting that dental bonding does not lighten with teeth whitening, so you may consider whitening your teeth before undergoing bonding or have the bonding replaced to match the new shade. If you have concerns about the durability of dental bonding, alternatives such as dental veneers or crowns may be worth considering, as they offer greater strength and longevity.