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 rebuilt with composite resin in a process called bonded restoration. This repair restores the tooth to like new condition and lasts a long time with routine care. Dental bonding is also used to enhance the appearance of a smile by reshaping teeth, correcting color, and closing gaps without the need for veneers or orthodontics.
How does dental bonding compare to other options?
Many options are available for restoring your teeth or achieving your dream smile. The best choice depends on your specific needs. During your appointment, we will discuss all options and the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision. Here are some benefits of dental bonding:
Quick and painless
Unlike fillings or veneers that often require drilling, dental bonding usually involves little or no removal of natural tooth material, making the procedure almost always painless.
Low upfront cost
More extensive treatments like veneers or orthodontics come with higher costs. Dental bonding is a simple and cost effective solution for minor changes to a few teeth.
Great for small repairs
For minor changes, dental bonding is often the simplest option. For more dramatic changes, treatments like veneers, crowns, or orthodontics may be better.
The dental bonding process
Whether restoring a tooth or improving aesthetics, the process is similar. Here’s what to expect:
Preparing the tooth
Neighboring teeth are protected with a thin plastic film called a dental matrix to shield them from stray materials. The dentist cleans and dries your tooth, then applies a mild acidic gel for a few seconds to roughen the surface for better bonding.
Applying the composite resin
The gel is washed away and the tooth dried. The dentist applies resin matched to your tooth color in layers, curing each with a special blue light to ensure strength and durability.
Finishing touches
After checking your bite, the bonding is complete. The dentist polishes your tooth for a natural, beautiful look. You may forget which tooth was repaired. Your bonding will be noted in your chart, and at future exams, the dentist will monitor it for wear.
Cost of dental bonding in Allentown
Dental bonding serves many purposes, so costs vary depending on your needs. Typically, bonding costs between three hundred and six hundred dollars or more per tooth without insurance. Most insurance plans cover bonding, especially for repairing broken teeth. With insurance, expect to pay around sixty to one hundred twenty dollars out of pocket.
- Number of teeth to bond
- Whether new X rays are needed
- Amount of resin required
- Location of the teeth in your mouth
- Your overall oral health
When determining costs, we consider:
No dentist can give an exact quote over the phone. After an exam, we can provide an accurate quote so you can make an informed decision.
If you want expert care and guidance, our Dentist in Allentown team is here to help restore your smile.
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
Depending on location, eating habits, and oral hygiene, bonding can last four to ten years or longer. If wear is noticed, more resin can be applied during checkups to maintain strength.
Bonding is not permanent but very long lasting. With good care, it can last over a decade. If wear occurs, bonding can be refreshed with additional resin.
They are very different procedures. Veneers offer a longer lasting, more durable solution and are better for major smile changes. Bonding lasts less but costs less and is less invasive since less tooth material is altered.
Bonding carries little risk. Your natural tooth remains mostly intact underneath. Bonding may chip over time but is easily repaired. Note that bonding does not whiten with bleaching. You may whiten teeth before bonding or replace bonding to match after whitening. For durability concerns, veneers or crowns are stronger options.
What Our Patients Are Saying
- Video testimonials
- Google reviews
