The non-invasive cosmetic dental procedure we call dental bonding can help improve the appearance of your smile. Today, our dentists in Burnaby share some facts about how dental bonding can be used to repair gapped or discoloured teeth and restore your smile.
What is dental bonding?
This safe, effective and non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment is called 'dental bonding' because the tooth-coloured composite resin is applied and literally bonded to the tooth. The dentist will then shape and polish this tooth to match the teeth around it so that it blends in, leaving you with a natural-looking smile.
Why would I need dental bonding?
Most often, dental bonding is used for cosmetic purposes — to make teeth appear longer, close gaps between teeth, change their colour or shape, or to improve the appearance of a discoloured or chipped tooth.
Sometimes, bonding is used as an alternative to amalgam (silver) fillings, or to cover exposed tooth roots due to receding gums.
How is the dental bonding procedure done?
During your dental bonding treatment, your dentist will apply composite resin to your tooth in layers and use a light to harden each layer.
After the last layer has hardened, the dentist shapes and polishes it to fit your tooth to give you a smooth, natural-looking tooth that complements the rest of your smile.
How long does dental bonding take?
Dental bonding usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth to complete. 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 cost. Fortunately, dental bonding is an effective, relatively long-lasting cosmetic procedure. Your specific cost will depend on a number of factors, including:
- Your local area - costs may vary depending on which city your dentist is in, and which dental practice completes the procedure
- Insurance coverage - how much of the procedure will your insurance cover? (May depend on whether your issue is primarily cosmetic or structural)
- Scope of work, where in the mouth your procedure is taking place and the size of the area to be bonded
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.
