Dental bonding is a non-invasive technique your dentist might use to make cosmetic changes to your teeth. Our Langley Straight Smile Dentists are here with all the information you need to know about this procedure.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure done by our Straight Smile Surrey Dentists as a safe, effective and non-invasive cosmetic treatment designed to alter the look of a worn, cracked or misshapen tooth. Your dentist applies tooth-coloured composite resin to your teeth, then shapes and polishes it to match the teeth surrounding it so that it blends in, creating a natural-looking smile.
We call the process 'dental bonding' because the composite resin literally bonds to the tooth.
How dental bonding might help
Dental bonding is often used for cosmetic reasons, to alter the appearance of a chipped or discoloured tooth, to make your natural teeth longer, or to close gaps between teeth.
Bonding is also sometimes used as an alternative to silver (amalgam) fillings, or to cover exposed tooth roots due to receding gums.
What to expect during your dental bonding treatment
When your dentist performs a dental bonding treatment, the dentist applies composite resin to your tooth in layers. A light is used to harden each layer.
After the last layer is hardened, the dentist shapes and polishes it to fit your tooth, resulting in a smooth, natural-looking tooth that complements the rest of your smile.
How long does dental bonding take?
This procedure is relatively quick, taking about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. 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.
How much does dental bonding cost?
Often, patients we see for dental bonding procedures are concerned about what it's going to cost as cosmetic procedures are generally not covered by insurance. Fortunately, dental bonding is an effective, relatively long-lasting cosmetic procedure. Your specific cost will depend on a number of 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 does dental bonding last?
The composite resin your dentist will use during the bonding process will likely have a lifespan of between 4 and 8 years, and potentially up to 10 years.
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.