Dental bonding is a versatile, affordable cosmetic procedure that can enhance your smile in a single visit. From repairing small chips to closing gaps between teeth, dental bonding provides a quick, effective solution for various minor dental imperfections.
At Enhance Dental Centre, we’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve the smiles they’ve always wanted. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dental bonding—from the procedure itself to its benefits and tips on caring for your bonded teeth.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding, also known as composite bonding, is a minimally invasive cosmetic dental procedure designed to improve the appearance of your teeth. This treatment involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the surface of affected teeth to address imperfections such as chips, small gaps, discolouration, or uneven shapes.
Your dentist carefully shapes and sculpts the resin to match your natural tooth structure and colour, ensuring a seamless blend with your smile. Once applied, the resin is hardened using a special light, which bonds it securely to the tooth’s surface.
Afterward, the bonded area is polished to match the natural sheen of your teeth, giving a smooth and natural-looking finish. Dental bonding is a gentle option since it requires little to no removal of enamel, preserving the natural structure of your teeth.
Typically completed in a single visit, dental bonding is a quick, affordable, and effective way to enhance your smile, making it an ideal choice for those seeking immediate results.
Why Choose Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding enhances your smile using a tooth-coloured resin to:
- Conceal chips or cracks
- Cover discolouration
- Close gaps between teeth
- Lengthen teeth
- Adjust tooth shape
The same resin is also used in restorative dentistry to:
- Fill cavities
- Replace old silver fillings with a natural-looking option
- Protect exposed tooth roots due to gum recession
How does the dental bonding process work?
Dental bonding is a quick procedure, typically completed in a single visit. During this process, your dentist applies a composite resin to the affected tooth, shaping it to blend naturally with your smile. Here’s what to expect:
- The dentist cleans the tooth to prepare it for bonding.
- They apply and shape the resin to match your tooth’s natural appearance.
- A UV light hardens the resin, followed by further shaping for a precise fit.
- Finally, the bonding is polished for a smooth, natural finish.
The entire procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. If multiple teeth need bonding, additional visits may be required. Most procedures don’t require anesthesia, so you can return to normal activities immediately.
Pros of Dental Bonding
Cosmetic dental bonding offers several advantages over other treatments:
- Simple and non-surgical procedure
- Cost-effective solution for minor imperfections
- Quick treatment, often completed in one visit
- Painless, with anesthesia only needed if reshaping is required
- Minimal impact on the natural tooth structure
- No recovery time—resume normal activities immediately
- Effectively conceals chips, cracks, gaps, and discolouration
Are there any risks with teeth bonding?
Dental bonding has minimal risks. The composite resin used isn’t as strong as natural teeth, so it may chip or separate, though this is less common than with crowns, veneers, or dental fillings. Bonded teeth are more prone to chipping if you chew on hard items like ice, pens, or candy. Additionally, the resin can stain more easily than natural enamel, so discolouration may occur if you smoke or drink coffee frequently.
How long does dental bonding last?
Dental bonding typically lasts between 4 to 8 years, and sometimes up to 10 years with proper care. The longevity of bonding depends on its location in your mouth and your dental habits. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential.
To extend the life of your bonded teeth, limit sugary and acidic foods, as they can weaken teeth. After eating fruit, brush and floss to prevent plaque buildup. Avoid chewing hard items like ice or candy, and refrain from grinding your teeth, as these can chip the bonding material.
How much does dental bonding cost in Canada?
In Canada, dental bonding typically costs between $200 and $600 per tooth. The exact price depends on factors such as the location, size and complexity of the procedure.
For instance, repairing a small chip may cost between $200 and $300, while more extensive work can range from $400 to $600 or more per tooth. It’s advisable to consult with your dentist for an accurate estimate tailored to your specific needs.
How to Take Care of Your Bonded Tooth
Bonded teeth require special care to maintain their appearance and durability. While composite resin helps repair teeth, it’s not as strong as natural enamel. Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or hard foods, as these can damage both bonded and natural teeth, especially if you’re prone to chipping.
Keep in mind that resin stains more easily than enamel. Frequent consumption of coffee, red wine, or smoking can discolour the bonding, which cannot be whitened. If staining occurs, replacement or veneers may be necessary. While teeth whitening is safe with bonding, note that bonded areas won’t change colour, which could create a mismatch.
To care for bonded teeth, practice good oral hygiene: brush twice daily, floss once a day, and use antiseptic mouthwash. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also essential.
Conclusion
Dental bonding is an ideal solution for enhancing your smile with minimal time and cost. Whether you have chipped, discoloured, or uneven teeth, this quick, painless procedure can make a noticeable difference. With proper care, bonded teeth can remain beautiful and functional for years.
If you’re considering dental bonding, the team at Enhance Dental Centre is here to guide you. Schedule a consultation with us today to take the first step toward a brighter, more confident smile!
