Dental Bonding: Procedure, Risks, and Cost
Nothing dampers your smile like chipped, cracked, misaligned or discolored teeth. Not only that, but these dental problems could also affect your dental structure and health. Furthermore, tiny cracks in your teeth could cause bacteria to multiply.
A variety of dental solutions are available, but for minor dental imperfections, dental bonding is ideal.
What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a restorative procedure that involves the application of composite resin on the teeth to repair and restore the shape, size, and function of the teeth.
The composite resin can last between three to 10 years depending on your oral habits, after which the material will need to be replaced.
Why is the Procedure Done?
Dr. Martin Orro may recommend dental bonding to address various dental problems such as:
- If you have small teeth, the dental bonding can restore the size and make them appear larger
- If you have chipped teeth
- Tooth discoloration can also be corrected when the teeth whitening procedure is not an option
- If you have diastemas
- To protect the teeth that are affected by gum recession
How is the Procedure Done?
Dental bonding is a non-invasive procedure and requires only one dental visit—the procedure can take 30 to 60 minutes to be completed.
- PreparationTooth preparation is required for the dental procedure to be successful. Although you may not necessarily need local anesthesia, a numbing agent can be used if you have tooth decay or if drilling is required. Your teeth color will be recorded to help in choosing a naturally-looking composite resin.
- Tooth BondingThe tooth to be bonded is roughed and a liquid conditioning agent applied on the surface to help the bonding material stick or adhere to the tooth. The tooth-colored resin is painted, shaped and smoothened to the ideal shape.
The dentist may use a laser light to harden the material and afterward he will polish the teeth for a smooth appearance.
How Can You Care for The Bonded Tooth?
Although dental bonding doesn’t require any special care, you need to care for them to prevent dental decay. Also, keep in mind that the composite material is porous and prone to discoloration and staining. So, avoid overconsumption of tea, coffee, or wine.
Are There Any Risks?
Yes. The composite material used is porous and not durable and it can crack, chip, fracture or discolor. To protect the tooth, avoid chewing or biting hard objects with your teeth. Plus, avoid smoking and anything that may cause stains for the first 48 hours.
You may also experience tooth sensitivity for a few days, but it clears after some time. However, if you continue to experience sensitivity for more than a week, have sharp edges or the dental bonding loosens, you should call our dentist for an assessment.
When is Dental Bonding a Good Choice?
Because of its limitations, our dentist can only recommend dental bonding for mild dental conditions such as discoloration, chipped, or minimally cracked teeth. For severe conditions, the dentist will recommend other restorative treatments.
How Much Does Dental Bonding Cost?
The cost varies depending on the location, but the procedure can cost up to $400. Dental bridges are not covered by insurance but first confirm with your dental insurance provider if they cover the dental restoration. Additionally, contact us for information on the type of insurance covers we accept and other financial plans.
Schedule an Appointment
Tooth bonding is affordable, non-invasive and doesn’t require anesthesia unless you have cavities. Plus, you only require one hour for the procedure to be complete.
Remember, though the composite resin can last for a decade, the procedure is only suitable for mild to moderate dental problems. Before you settle on dental bridges, it is important to come for a dental assessment and a discussion if the dental bridges are the ideal treatment.
We have other dental treatments that serve as alternatives to dental bonding from veneers to bridges that can offer similar support. Contact us today for an assessment and we will create a personalized dental treatment suitable to fit your needs.