Everything You Need to Know About Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a common non-invasive procedure that can be used to repair discoloured, gapped teeth and restore your smile. Here, our Ottawa dentists share everything you need to know about how dental bonding can help improve the appearance of your smile.

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.

We call the process 'dental bonding' because the composite resin literally bonds to the tooth.

What is dental bonding used for?

Dental bonding is most often used for cosmetic purposes – to improve the appearance of chipped or discoloured teeth, to make teeth appear longer or change their shape or colour, or to close gaps between teeth.

Bonding is also sometimes used as an alternative to silver (amalgam) fillings, or to cover exposed tooth roots due to receding gums.

What to 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.

After the last layer is hardened, the dentist shapes and polishes it to fit your tooth, resulting in a smooth, natural-looking tooth that complements the rest of your smile.

How long does the dental bonding procedure take?

The dental bonding process usually takes up to 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 is the cost of dental bonding procedures?

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 composite resin your dentist will use during the bonding process has the potential to last up to 10 years with proper care.

How long the effects of dental bonding last can vary depending on its location within your mouth and whether you maintain excellent oral hygiene and continue with routine professional dental care.

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.

If needed your dentist will be able to repair the dental bonding.