Although we may not offer it, we believe in educating our clients about different facets of dentistry, including dental bonding. Dental bonding is a non-invasive cosmetic dental procedure that can help you improve your smile's appearance. Our Ottawa dentists share some information about how dental bonding can be used to restore your smile and repair discoloured, gapped teeth.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a non-invasive, safe, and effective cosmetic dental treatment. Your dentist coats your teeth in tooth-coloured composite resin, then shapes and polishes it to match the teeth around it, resulting in a natural-looking smile.
We call the process 'dental bonding' because the composite resin literally bonds to the tooth.
Why would I need dental bonding?
Dental bonding is most commonly used for cosmetic reasons, such as improving the appearance of chipped or discoloured teeth, lengthening teeth, changing their shape or colour, or closing 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 happens during a dental bonding procedure?
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?
Dental bonding usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete per tooth. Unlike veneers, which are custom-made in a dental lab and thus take longer, the bonding procedure is usually completed in just one visit.
How much does dental bonding cost?
Patients who come to us for dental bonding procedures are frequently concerned about the cost. Dental bonding, fortunately, is a cost-effective and long-lasting cosmetic procedure. Your exact cost will be determined by a variety 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).
Sugary and acidic foods, which can wear down your teeth, should be avoided if you want your smile to last as long as possible. Though fruit is beneficial to your health, remember to brush and floss your teeth immediately after eating it to prevent bacteria or plaque from forming. Avoid chewing hard candy or ice, as well as biting down too hard or grinding your teeth, as these can all chip the bonding material.
Your dentist can touch up the composite resin and re-bond it over time if required.
