For those who need minor smile improvements, teeth bonding is a great option they can look into. While not considered a dental emergency, teeth bonding is regarded as a convenient, straightforward, and cost-effective way of enhancing the teeth’s look while protecting them from further damage.
Teeth bonding is one of the most popular restorative solutions available. However, not many people know much about it. For instance, many people are likely wondering how much tooth bonding costs or how much tooth bonding will cost without insurance, or what teeth bonding before and after looks like, etc.
Teeth Bonding in a Nutshell
Teeth bonding is done by applying a tooth-colored resin material to the tooth. The durable plastic material is hardened using a special light that “bonds” the material to the tooth. The procedure is designed to improve or restore a person’s smile.
When is Teeth Bonding Ideal?
Teeth bonding is often an option in the following scenarios:
- When you have decayed teeth
- When you have a chipped or cracked tooth
- When you want to enhance the appearance of discolored teeth
- When you want to make teeth look longer
- When you want to close a space between your teeth
- When you want to change the shape of your teeth
- When you want an alternative to amalgam fillings
- When you want to protect an exposed portion of the tooth
What is the Teeth Bonding Procedure Like?
Preparation
Very minimal preparation is needed for dental bonding. Often, anesthesia is not necessary unless the procedure is carried out to fill a decayed tooth. In similar scenarios, the tooth has to be drilled to change its shape. The same thing is done when the chip is near a nerve. The dentist will use a shade guide to find the composite resin color that closely resembles the color of the natural teeth.
Bonding Process
The surface of the tooth is roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied. This can help ensure the bonding material adheres to the tooth. The tooth-colored resin is then applied, molded, and smoothed. The material is hardened using a laser or a blue light. Once the material hardens, the dentist will trim and shape it. It is then polished to mimic the sheen of the rest of the teeth.
Completion
Teeth bonding will take around 30 to 60 minutes (per tooth) to complete.
What are the Advantages of Teeth Bonding?
Undoubtedly, teeth bonding is considered one of the easiest and most cost-effective cosmetic dental procedures available. Unlike crowns and dental veneers, which need to be manufactured in a lab, bonding can be done in one office visit (unless several teeth are involved).
Another great advantage of teeth bonding is unlike veneers and crowns, very minimal tooth enamel is removed. Also, unless you are getting dental bonding to fill a cavity, anesthesia is often not necessary.
What is the Lifespan of Bonded Teeth?
The bonding materials’ lifespan will depend on two primary factors: your oral habits and how much bonding was done. It is important to remember that bonded teeth won’t have the same strength as natural teeth.
Some habits can also dramatically shorten the lifespan of the bonding materials. For instance, if you tend to bite down hard, you can end up breaking the bonding material off the teeth.
If you smoke or consume dark beverages like red wine or coffee, the bonding material can stain more quickly and might require replacement sooner. Typically, bonding materials can last from 3 to 10 years before it needs to be replaced or retouched.
How Should One Look After Bonded Teeth?
Since bonding materials can chip, it is essential to avoid teeth damaging habits like chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects, biting the fingernails or using the teeth to tear things open. If you notice that your bonded tooth feels odd when you bite down or when you feel sharp edges on the bonded tooth, visit your dentist right away.
It is reassuring to know that looking after bonded teeth is easy and straightforward. All you need to do is observe and follow the following oral hygiene practices:
- Brushing the teeth at least twice daily
- Flossing at least twice a day
- Rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash once OR twice daily
- Seeing the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups
How much teeth bonding cost?
The cost of dental bonding can vary depending on where you live. However, generally, it can range from $300 to $600 per tooth. Consider it best to check with your dental insurance company, so you will know if the procedure will be fully or partially covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
✅ How long does teeth bonding last?
Depending on a few key factors, the bonding material can last from 3 to 10 years on average.
✅ Does dental bonding look natural?
Yes. The composite resin used is shaded, so it matches the color of the rest of the teeth.
✅ How long after tooth bonding can I eat?
You don’t have to wait for too long before you can eat or drink. However, you may experience minimal sensitivity to heat and cold.
✅ What can’t you eat with bonded teeth?
Since the material can chip, it is not advisable to eat hard foods. To prevent staining, avoid beverages like tea, berries, coffee, wine, sports drinks, and bright colored sauces or candies.
✅ Can tooth bonding be removed?
Yes, the process is reversible.
Conclusion
A beautiful and healthy smile is a huge confidence booster. If you have a chip, gap, or discoloration in your teeth, bonding can be an option for you. Visit your emergency dentist right away, so you will know if teeth bonding is right for you.
Contribute By Glendale Dental Group
I am Kate, a dedicated health advocate. My purpose is to educate you regarding the most current wellness trends, offer science-backed insights to enhance your understanding, and present actionable tips to support you on your journey towards a healthier and happier life. Let us commence this wellness path together!