Your Okanagan Valley Invisalign® Provider
If you have damaged teeth then the cosmetic procedure of dental bonding may be suitable for you. Here, our the Okanagan Valley dentists explain what the dental bonding procedure is and everything you need to know about it.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a safe, effective and non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment. Your dentist applies tooth-coloured composite resin to your teeth, then shapes and polishes it to match the teeth surrounding it so that it blends in, creating a natural-looking smile.
Dental bonding gets its name due to the fact that the composite resin literally bonds to the teeth we are repairing.
What is the purpose of dental bonding?
Dental bonding is most often used for cosmetic purposes – to improve the appearance of a chipped or discoloured teeth, to make teeth appear longer or change their shape or colour, or to close gaps between teeth.
Your dentists may recommend bonding in place of amalgam fillings, or to cover exposed tooth roots due to receding gums.
What can I expect 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.
Once your dentist has completely filled the area with the dental bonding composite resin, they will then shape your tooth, resulting in a smooth, natural-looking tooth that complements the rest of your smile.
Is dental bonding a lengthy procedure?
A dental bonding appointment will take roughly an hour 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.
What are the costs associated with dental bonding?
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:
- 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
Is dental bonding permanent?
The dental bonding procedure uses composite resin which can last up to a decade if cared for properly.
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.