Cosmetic dental bonding is generally characterized as a minimally invasive “touch-up” treatment to improve the look of your teeth.
Its purpose is to fix small imperfections, like chips, gaps, or discoloration. At The Dental House, cosmetic bonding is one of the primary services we offer – and we want to take this opportunity to discuss the costs associated in detail.
We’ll talk about the average cost, common factors that affect the price, and what to expect from the dental bonding procedure.
The Dental House was founded to be a practice where people can get the treatments they need without any unexpected costs, headaches, or disappointments. Our goal is to help you understand what goes into the cost of cosmetic dental bonding so you can make the best choice for yourself.
Let’s get into it.
What Is Cosmetic Dental Bonding?
Cosmetic dental bonding is a very common procedure that involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your natural teeth – with the intention of fixing minor issues. Once the resin is applied, it’s then shaped and polished to blend in with the rest of your teeth.
Dental bonding is a preferred treatment for many different reasons.
1. It’s cost-effective
The cosmetic dental bonding cost is generally a more affordable option than most other cosmetic dental procedures – like dental crowns or veneers. This makes it an ideal option for patients who only need minor repairs or touch ups.
2. Dental bonding is a quick procedure
Nearly all dental bonding procedures can be completed in one appointment. Unlike other treatments, there is no custom lab worked needed, which usually requires two or more appointments.
3. The treatment is minimally invasive
This treatment typically does not require any removal of the natural tooth enamel. This is needed in some procedures, but it’s very minimal.
4. It can fix a variety of issues
One of the greatest benefits of dental bonding is its versatility. The treatment can be used for a wide range of issues – including minor chipping, cracks, gaps, and discoloration.
5. It’s reversible
Dental bonding does not require significant changes to the natural teeth, meaning it doesn’t have to be a permanent solution. Many patients start with this procedure due to its cost-effectiveness and may choose a more extensive fix later on.
When Is Cosmetic Dental Bonding an Ideal Treatment?
Dental bonding, as mentioned, is a very versatile procedure to fix many different issues. Most of the patients we do the treatment for at The Dental House need the following support:
Filling Small Gaps Between Teeth
Gaps between teeth can be unsightly to many patients. Dental bonding is a great treatment to close these small gaps for a more polished look. By applying a resin that matches the natural tooth color, bonding works to give the appearance of better alignment and shape.
Repairing Chipped/Cracked Teeth
Broken teeth – if left untreated – are vulnerable to decay, infections, pain, and difficulty chewing. Bonding is a quick and easy fix for most chips or cracks, restoring both the tooth’s shape, strength, and functionality. The resin material bonds to the tooth surface to disguise any imperfections and prevent further damage.
Hiding Discolored Teeth
For discoloration that resists traditional whitening, dental bonding offers a reliable alternative. The resin can be color-matched to cover stains, resulting in a brighter, even smile.
Reshaping Teeth
Uneven teeth can slowly impact the shape of the jaw. Dental bonding can help reshape irregularly sized or uneven teeth for better symmetry. This non-invasive technique smooths out inconsistencies to create better alignment – and aesthetics.
What is the Cost of Dental Bonding?
The cost of cosmetic teeth bonding depends on several different factors, including the extent of the work, your dentist’s experience, and your dental insurance. On average, cosmetic dental bonding costs between $150 and $600 per tooth.
Note: This is an average ballpark for the cosmetic dental bonding cost. Prices at The Dental House can vary.
While the cost may be different for each patient, it’s important to understand that dental bonding is generally more affordable than most other cosmetic options – like dental veneers or crowns. Additionally, it may be covered by insurance if it’s needed for medical reasons, such as repairing a broken tooth.
Is Dental Bonding Covered by Insurance?
In many cases, dental bonding is considered cosmetic dentistry, and may not be covered by your insurance.
However, if the bonding is deemed “necessary” to repair a damaged or decayed tooth, insurance might cover part of the cost. Be sure to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s included in your plan.
When you elect to get this cosmetic dentistry procedure done at The Dental House, we will help you verify with your insurance about your coverage.
How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?
Dental bonding is not as durable as crowns or veneers, but it can last several years with proper care. On average, dental bonding lasts 3 to 10 years.
Dental bonding may wear down or discolor over time, especially if you are prone to nail-biting or teeth grinding – which can weaken the bonded material over time. Routine dental visits allow us to monitor the bonding and perform touch-ups as needed to keep it looking natural and intact.
How to Get the Best Value from Dental Bonding
We recommend starting with a consultation to see if dental bonding is the right cosmetic procedure.
At The Dental House, we accept PPO insurance. Our business model is designed to work with you to create a treatment plan so the dental bonding costs fit your budget. Our focus is to provide quality care, not upsell unnecessary services.
To prolong the lifespan and maintain dental bonding, we recommend prioritizing:
Oral Hygiene
Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups (at least twice per year) are key to maintaining the appearance and durability of the dental bonding work you receive. Good, daily oral hygiene practices work to prevent plaque buildup around the bonding, minimizing the risk of staining or damage, and most importantly, extending the life of the bonding.
Diet
To protect your bonding, we recommend avoiding hard foods like nuts, hard candies, or ice, which can put stress on the bonded areas and lead to chipping or fractures. Additionally, try to limit the consumption of staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, wine, and berries, as these can discolor the bonding material over time.
Touch-Ups
Dental bonding may wear down or discolor over time, especially if you are prone to nail-biting or teeth grinding – which can weaken the bonded material over time. Routine dental visits allow us to monitor the bonding and perform touch-ups as needed to keep it looking natural and intact.
How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?
Dental bonding is not as durable as crowns or veneers, but it can last several years with proper care. On average, dental bonding lasts 3 to 10 years.
Alternatives to Dental Bonding
If you’re considering other options besides dental bonding, there are a few alternatives to think about:
Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin shells placed over the front of your teeth. This treatment is more expensive than bonding but offers longer-lasting results. Veneers can fix a wider range of cosmetic issues and are generally more resistant to staining.
Dental Crowns
Crowns are custom-fitted to cover the entire tooth and are used for more significant damage or decay. This treatment – while relatively expensive – is very durable and can last many years with proper care.
Teeth Whitening
If discoloration is your main concern, traditional teeth whitening may be a more ideal option. This is a simple, non-invasive procedure that can brighten your smile without altering the structure of your teeth. Like cosmetic dental bonding, whitening can usually be done in a single appointment.
If you notice any chips or discoloration in the bonded area, visit your dentist for a touch-up.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need to fix a chipped tooth, close a gap, or cover discoloration, dental bonding can provide quick – and affordable – results with minimal invasiveness.
At The Dental House, we take pride in offering the best value for our patients. We believe in providing quality care and helping you make the most informed decisions about your dental health. If you’re considering cosmetic dental bonding or have any questions about the procedure, contact us today for a consultation.
Let us help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted — without breaking the bank! Give us a call at 619-833-0733 or schedule an appointment online.