Dental Bonding
If you have a small chip on your front tooth or a gap that you don’t appreciate, dental bonding might be the ideal solution for you. These bonding uses a tooth-colored resin material that adheres to the teeth, immediately altering the shape, color, and form of the tooth. Unlike many dental procedures, they are completely reversible. Here’s a comprehensive guide about dental bonding.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bondings are tooth-colored resins that attach to the tooth using bonding agents. They’re often used in cosmetic procedures, such as repairing a chipped tooth or closing a gap. These materials are a top choice in cosmetic dentistry due to their versatility in shape and form before setting.They come in various shades and colors. They can also be easily polished or removed, making them a durable yet reversible solution.
When dental bonding is Recommended?
There are certain cosmetic issues that can be fixed perfectly by dental bonding. Here is the list:
Chipped or cracked tooth
A small chip or crack in the front teeth is very common. Because dental bondings can match the color of the natural tooth, can be manipulated in form, and offer both durability and affordability, they are the perfect treatment of choice in such cases.
Closing Gaps
Closing the gap between front teeth is another reason to use them. Due to their properties, they are an ideal solution for bridging gaps in certain situations.
Tooth Discoloration
Some tooth discoloration that can’t be fix with tooth whitening could be fixed with dental bonding without making any damage to the tooth.
Changing Shape
Sometimes, the shape of the teeth needs some adjustment for functional or cosmetic reasons. In these cases, dental bonding is the most common solution.
Bonding Procedure
Depending on the reason for using dental bonding, the procedure may vary. Here are the general steps:
- Before Treatment: Your dentist will use diagnostic tools, such as X-rays or a visual exam, to determine if dental bonding is suitable for you.
- During Treatment: Based on the required treatment, your dentist will first select the shade then prepare your tooth. A bonding agent is then applied to the tooth surface. After this, your dentist will apply the bonding material, shape it appropriately, and then harden it using a curing light.
- After Treatment: To ensure the longevity of these bondings, maintaining consistent oral hygiene is crucial. This prevents the bonding from staining or decay forming underneath.
Dental Bonding Cost
Dental bondings are a cost-effective solution, though the price can vary based on several factors. These include the complexity and type of treatment, the number of teeth requiring treatment, and the dental office’s pricing structure. On average, the cost of dental bonding in Houston, TX ranges from $100 to $500 per tooth.
Dental Bonding V.S Veneers
Dental Bonding:
- Material: Composed of a tooth-colored composite resin.
- Procedure: The resin is applied directly to the tooth and shaped before being hardened with a special light.
- Duration: The procedure is relatively quick, often completed in one visit.
- Durability: Generally lasts 3-10 years, but can be susceptible to chipping or staining.
- Cost: Typically less expensive than veneers.
- Reversibility: The process is minimally invasive and can often be reversed.
- Best for: Small cosmetic changes, temporary correction of cosmetic defects, and correction of teeth in areas of low bite pressure.
Veneers:
- Material: Thin shells made out of porcelain or composite resin.
- Procedure: A small amount of the natural tooth is removed to fit the veneer, which is then cemented onto the front of the teeth.
- Duration: Typically requires at least two visits – one for shaping and impression and another for application.
- Durability: Lasts longer than bonding, usually 10-20 years, and is resistant to staining.
- Cost: Generally more expensive than dental bonding.
- Reversibility: Since a portion of the natural tooth is removed to accommodate the veneer, the process is irreversible.
- Best for: Achieving a high cosmetic result, especially for front teeth; good for teeth with significant discoloration, size or shape discrepancies, or alignment issues.
FAQ
Is Bonding covered by insurance?
It is generally not covered by dental insurance as they consider it as cosmetic procedure.
How long does dental bonding last?
It generally lasts between 3-10 years depends on many factors like hygiene, diet and chewing habits.
Can bonding be removed?
Yes.They are completely reversible and can be removed by dentist without hurting your teeth.
Is the bonding permanent?
No.life span is something between 3-10 years varies from patient to patient.
Can you whiten bonding?
No.It can’t be whitened like natural teeth.The only way is publishing to remove stains or discoloration.
How strong is the bonding?
It is reasonably strong, and while it may not have the durability of a crown, it can still resist bite forces to a certain extent.
If you’re worried about improving your smile due to costs, let us ease your concerns. Even if you have dental insurance, it might not cover bonding treatments. At Pulse Dental, we offer affordable payment plans to ensure you receive the care you deserve. Contact us today.