What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding uses composite resin – the same material used for composite fillings – to shape a tooth. Teeth that are chipped, cracked or broken can be ‘built up’ with composite resin in a process called Bonded Restoration. This repair will restore the tooth to like-new condition and will last a long time with routine care. Dental bonding is also used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a smile by reshaping teeth, correcting colour and closing gaps without the need for veneers or orthodontics.
How Does Dental Bonding Compare To Other Options?
There are several options available to restore your teeth or enhance your smile to your liking. The most suitable option for you will depend on your individual needs. During your appointment, we will gladly discuss all the options available, weigh their advantages and disadvantages, and assist you in making an informed decision. However, here are some of the advantages of dental bonding:
Quick and painless
Unlike fillings or dental veneers, dental bonding usually doesn’t require drilling or removal of natural tooth structure, making it a painless and minimally invasive procedure.
Low upfront cost
Compared to more comprehensive treatments like orthodontics and dental veneers, dental bonding is a cost-effective option for minor changes to a few teeth. While these extensive treatments require a more complex and personalized approach, dental bonding is a straightforward and affordable solution that can deliver satisfying results.
Great for small repairs
It’s worth emphasizing that if you’re seeking significant changes to your smile, a more intricate treatment plan that may involve dental veneers, crowns, or orthodontics could be the best option. However, for minor cosmetic changes, dental bonding remains a simple and effective solution.
The Dental Bonding Process
Whether you’re receiving dental bonding for restorative or cosmetic purposes, the procedure remains the same. Here’s what you can expect during your dental bonding appointment:
Preparing the tooth
The dental bonding process usually starts by protecting your neighboring teeth with a thin plastic film called a dental matrix. This film is placed between your teeth to shield the adjacent tooth from any stray preparation gel or composite resin.
Applying the composite resin
After the acidic gel is cleaned away and the tooth is dried, the composite resin is applied. Your dentist will select a shade of resin that closely matches your natural tooth color for a seamless and natural-looking finish.The resin material is applied to the tooth in layers, with each layer being cured using a special blue light. This curing process helps to harden and strengthen the bonding material for maximum durability.
Finishing touches
After ensuring that your bite is correct, the dental bonding procedure is complete. Your dentist will give your tooth a final polish to achieve a beautiful and natural-looking finish.
With the bonding complete, it’s possible that you may even forget which tooth was repaired. The dentist will make a note of the bonding in your chart and at future exams, they will pay special attention to the bonded tooth to check for any signs of wear and tear.
Cost Of A Dental Bonding In Newcastle
Dental bonding is a versatile cosmetic dental procedure that can be used for a variety of reasons, such as repairing chipped or broken teeth, improving the appearance of discoloured teeth, and closing gaps between teeth. The cost of dental bonding varies depending on several factors, including how many teeth require treatment, the amount of composite resin needed, the location of the teeth in your mouth, and your overall oral health.
Without insurance, dental bonding typically costs between $300 to $600 or more per tooth. However, most insurance companies cover dental bonding, especially if it’s necessary to restore a damaged tooth. With insurance, you can expect to pay around $60 to $120 out of pocket.
It’s important to note that no dentist can provide an accurate quote over the phone. During your examination, we will take into account all the necessary factors and provide you with an accurate quote in person. This will help you make an informed decision and understand your final costs. So, if you’re considering dental bonding, consult with a qualified dentist to determine the best treatment plan for your unique needs.
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
Yes, dental bonding can be used to replace silver fillings, which are no longer commonly used due to their unappealing appearance and potential health risks associated with mercury content.
No, dental bonding is a minimally invasive and painless procedure that requires little to no preparation of the tooth before application.
The dental bonding procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour per tooth, depending on the extent of the treatment required.
With proper care, dental bonding can last up to 5 to 10 years. However, the lifespan of the bonding material may vary depending on various factors such as the patient’s oral hygiene habits and the location of the bonded tooth in the mouth.
Most dental insurance companies cover dental bonding, especially if it’s necessary to restore a damaged tooth. With insurance, you can expect to pay around $60 to $120 out of pocket.
