How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Teeth Bonded? Tooth Bonding Prices

The Costs Associated with Tooth Bonding

Tooth bonding is an affordable and conservative dental procedure that can improve the look of your smile. During tooth bonding, a dentist applies a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of the tooth to change its shape, color, size or overall appearance. The material bonds to the natural tooth, creating a seamless look and feel. While less expensive than other smile makeover options like veneers or crowns, there are still costs to consider with tooth bonding.

Factors That Affect Tooth Bonding Cost

Several factors play into the overall price of tooth bonding, including:

• The number of teeth being bonded - Bonding multiple teeth costs more than a single tooth.
• The extent of the procedure - Small chips or gaps are quicker to bond vs. major reshaping.
• Your geographic location - Dental fees vary across different cities and states.
• Your dentist's fee schedule - Prices range from general dentists to cosmetic specialists.
• Supplementary procedures - Other work like dental fillings or a deep cleaning may add cost.

Tooth bonding pricing is also not one-size-fits-all. The condition of your teeth, desired results and dental office all impact your final bill. Getting an exact tooth bonding cost estimate requires an exam by your dentist.

Tooth Bonding Cost Ranges

While your specific case determines true costs, some general tooth bonding price ranges include:

• Per tooth: $100 to $600+. Simple thin veneers start around $100-$300 per tooth. Reshaping a tooth with major bonding can cost $600+.
• Per unit: $200 to $1,200+. Rather than price per tooth, some dentists charge per bonding unit or surface. Each tooth has 5 surfaces or units.
• Full mouth: $1,000 to $5,000+. Bonding a full set of teeth runs $1,000 on the low end to over $5,000 for extensive work.

These ranges illustrate how quickly tooth bonding costs can rise. Still, bonding one front tooth for subtle improvement may only be a couple hundred dollars. Full mouth rehabilitation using bonding would fall on the higher end.

Tooth Bonding vs. Dental Veneers Cost

Veneers and bonding both change the appearance of teeth. However, veneers tend to be more expensive:

• Bonding cost per tooth: $300-$600
• Veneers cost per tooth: $925-$2,500

Why the price difference? Veneers are custom-made from porcelain or composite in a lab. This added fabrication makes them cost more upfront. However, bonding is more likely to need repairs and replacement over time. So veneers can be more cost effective long term.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Bonding?

Coverage for tooth bonding depends on your specific dental insurance plan. Procedures like bonding are often considered cosmetic rather than medically necessary. But many dental plans provide at least partial bonding coverage:

• Basic plans cover 15%-50% of bonding costs.
• Major plans cover 50%-80% of bonding costs.
• Orthodontic plans sometimes cover bonding over braces.

Getting a pre-treatment estimate from your dentist clarifies exactly what your plan covers. Many also offer financing options like CareCredit to pay remaining balances.

The Tooth Bonding Procedure Step-By-Step

Wondering what to expect with the tooth bonding process? Here are the basic steps:

Initial Dental Exam

A dentist first performs an oral exam checking for decay, gum disease and other problems. They also assess the specific flaws you want to address with bonding. Photographs and dental X-rays are often taken during this visit as well.

Preparation of the Tooth

Your dentist roughens the outer enamel layer of the tooth slightly to help the bonding material adhere. They may also etch the surface with an acidic gel.

Application of the Bonding Resin

The tooth-colored putty is molded and sculpted over the tooth. A special light then hardens and bonds the material. Your dentist carefully shapes and polishes it into a natural shape and color.

Finishing and Polishing

For a smooth feel, your dentist buffs and polishes the bonding material and tooth. Bite alignment with opposing teeth is also checked.

Total Time

You can usually get in and out of your dentist's office within one visit. Total appointment time is often less than one hour for single-tooth bonding. More extensive cases with multiple teeth may take two hours or more.

Benefits of Tooth Bonding

Why might you consider tooth bonding? Benefits include:

• Affordability - Lower cost than other cosmetic dentistry options.
• Convenience - Can often complete treatment in one quick appointment.
• Conservation - Requires minimal removal of natural tooth enamel.
• Versatility - Can reshape, repair, whiten and close gaps in teeth.
• Natural Look - Subtly enhances teeth for an improved but natural appearance.
• Sturdiness - Bonds firmly and is quite durable with proper care.

With benefits like these, it's easy to see why tooth bonding is a popular choice for minor to moderate smile fixes. More dramatic cases often call for other procedures like dental veneers or crowns.

Is Tooth Bonding Right for You?

The best candidates for tooth bonding include:

• Those with minor tooth flaws like small chips, gaps or stains.
• People who want minor cosmetic enhancements vs. major smile makeovers.
• Individuals with cost concerns who want affordable smile improvements.
• Those who prefer conservative dental treatments.
• People who desire a quick cosmetic fix in just one visit.

Bonding likely isn't the best option for:

• Individuals needing more significant smile rehabilitation.
• People wanting an ultra-bright "Hollywood" smile.
• Those with extensive tooth decay or gum disease.
• Patients with bruxism, TMJ or teeth grinding issues.
• Smokers - who experience bonding repair and replacement more often.

Talking through your specific case with your dentist helps determine if bonding is suitable for your needs and dental health.

Maintaining Your Bonded Teeth

While durable, bonded teeth do require care and maintenance. Be sure to:

• Avoid chewing hard foods and ice which can crack the material.
• Wear a mouthguard if playing sports to prevent trauma and damage.
• Stay away from habits like teeth grinding that place excess stress on bonded teeth.
• See your dentist twice annually for exams and professional cleanings.
• Have bonding repaired promptly when chips or cracks occur to prevent decay.

With proper oral hygiene and avoidance of damaging habits, bonded teeth can last 5-10 years or longer before needing replacement. New bonding can be applied as needed to maintain your smile.

Consult a Cosmetic Dentist About Tooth Bonding

While costs vary based on your specific needs, tooth bonding remains one of the most budget-friendly ways to enhance your smile's appearance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.