Understanding Dental Bonding and What Impacts the Cost
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that can restore chipped, broken, discolored or misshapen teeth for an improved smile. A putty-like composite resin material is applied to the tooth surface, molded into shape, hardened with a curing light and then polished smooth.
But what determines the cost per tooth when getting dental bonding work done?
Factoring in Extensiveness of Bonding Needed
The amount of teeth that require bonding and the size of the repair area influences the per tooth cost. For example:
- Small tooth-colored filling replacement - $100-$300 per tooth
- Bonding several small chips on front teeth - $200-$500 per tooth
- Covering entirety of discolored or misshapen tooth - $300-$800 per tooth
More severely damaged teeth needing excessive reshaping and bonded material drive the cost per tooth upward.
Type of Dental Bonding Material Used
Composite resin comes in different quality types and grades. Factors like translucency, shade color-matching ability, durability and polishable finish impact the per tooth price of bonding.
For example, more aesthetic translucent bonding shades cost more but produce a more life-like, subtle look. Stronger composite materials are also more expensive than standard types but provide longer lasting restorations.
Evaluating the Extent of Tooth Preparation Needed
The condition of the underlying tooth structure getting bonded dictates how much drilling, etching and preparation work is required beforehand. More complex prep bumps up the per tooth bonding costs.
Removing Existing Restorations
If old fillings, caps or crowns need drilling out before placing new bonding, additional fees apply per tooth depending on time and difficulty.
Reshaping and Contouring
Significantly misshapen teeth needing substantial reduction before bonding generally costs more per tooth.
Tooth-colored Filling Replacement
For silver mercury amalgam fillings being swapped for bonded composites, costs vary depending on size and depth of the cavity.
Considering the Expertise Level of Your Dentist
Like with most healthcare services, the experience and capability of your provider impacts pricing. Cosmetic specialists with advanced bonding expertise rightfully charge more.
Artistic Skill and Precision
Adept aesthetic dentists create beautifully flawless, natural looking bonded restorations - reflected in their fees per tooth.
Efficiency and Comfort
Highly trained dentists also get bonding work done faster with less drilling discomfort.
Customization Ability
Expert bonding artists perfectly match surrounding tooth shade and shape for special customization cases.
Factor in Follow-Up Bonding Maintenance Needs
Getting dental bonding isn't a once-and-done treatment. Maintaining bonding work through touch up appointments is key for longevity and sustained attractiveness.
Annual Dental Checkups
Dentists examine the condition of bonding during routine yearly visits. Minor repair re-polishing or replacement comes at an additional cost per tooth.
Eventual Replacement
On average, quality dental bonding lasts 5-7 years before requiring replacement as material slowly wears down. The new restoration incurs a similar per tooth fee.
Considering long-term bonding upkeep needs over decades when budgeting makes more financial sense than only factoring initial placement costs per tooth.
Weighing Dental Bonding Value Against Other Options
The per tooth price associated with dental bonding is relatively affordable compared to extensive treatments like crowns or veneers.
Composite Bonding Pros
- Conservative tooth preparation
- No molds or temporaries
- Completed in single visit
- Cost effective
Porcelain Solutions Pros
- Very strong and durable restorations
- Excellent aesthetics mimicking natural tooth
- Long-lasting with good oral care
Consulting your dentist on whether to choose dental bonding or an alternate treatment comes down to your specific smile goals, time and budget.
FAQs
Does insurance cover dental bonding?
Dental insurance often covers a portion of bonding costs, especially when done to repair damaged teeth. Cosmetic bonding work may only be partially covered or not qualifying for coverage.
Is tooth bonding painful?
Getting dental bonding is not a painful process. Your dentist will numb the area being worked on. Some sensitivity or discomfort may occur after numbness wears off once bonding is set.
How long does dental bonding last?
With proper oral care, quality dental bonding can last 5-7 years before needing replacement. Annual exams catch any issues like chipping or discoloration early for minor touch up restoration.
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.
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