How Much Does It Cost to Get Tooth Bonding? A Dentist Breaks Down the Price

What is Tooth Bonding?

Tooth bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that uses a tooth-colored resin material to repair damaged teeth. The resin material is applied directly to the tooth's surface and shaped to improve the tooth's appearance. Tooth bonding can be used to fix chips, cracks, discoloration, and gaps between teeth. It provides a quick, affordable, and non-invasive solution for minor tooth flaws.

Benefits of Tooth Bonding

There are several benefits that make tooth bonding a popular choice for improving the look of teeth:

• Conservative approach - Only a small amount of natural tooth needs to be removed compared to veneers or crowns.
• Cost-effective - Tooth bonding is less expensive than other cosmetic treatments like dental veneers.
• Quick process - Bonding can often be completed in a single office visit.
• Versatile - Can be used to fix a variety of cosmetic dental issues.
• Natural looking results - Properly matched resin blends in seamlessly.
• Strong and durable - Bonded resin is tooth-colored, stain-resistant and long lasting.

Tooth Bonding Process

Getting a tooth bonded is a relatively simple procedure. It involves just a few steps:

1. Preparation - The tooth surface is roughened and an etching solution is applied to improve resin adhesion.
2. Application - The tooth-colored resin material is applied and carefully shaped with dental tools.
3. Curing - A special light is used to harden and cure the resin material.
4. Polishing - The bonded area is smoothed and polished to a natural luster.

The entire tooth bonding process can usually be completed in a single visit. And no anesthesia is required since the procedure doesn't involve any pain. The resin bonds directly to the natural tooth surface for seamless, natural-looking results.

Cost of Tooth Bonding

The cost for tooth bonding may vary based on the following factors:

Type of Bonding

Small spot bonding for a minor chip or crack will cost less than multiple teeth bonding for closing gaps or reshaping teeth. The amount of teeth and surfaces that need bonding will impact the total price.

Complexity of Procedure

Bonding simple chips or minor repairs will take less time and be more affordable than doing elaborate reshaping or corrections. Complex bonding procedures require more expertise and effort from the dentist.

Amount of Resin Material Needed

The amount of resin required to achieve the desired result will factor into the total cost. Large repairs or bonding multiple teeth will necessitate more resin material.

Dentist Fees

Dentist fees tend to vary based on location, qualifications, and experience. A highly skilled cosmetic dentist may charge more for bonding services than a general dentist.

Dental Office Location

Costs are usually higher in major metro areas compared to rural locations. Overhead expenses also factor into what dentists charge for procedures.

With all those factors in mind, patients can expect to pay the following approximate costs:

• Minor spot bonding - $100 to $300 per tooth
• 1-2 teeth bonding - $300 to $600 per tooth
• 3 or more teeth bonding - $250 to $400 per tooth

Additional Fees

A dental exam, x-rays, anesthesia, temporary repairs, or other needs may incur additional fees beyond the basic bonding cost. Patients should ask their dentist for a complete cost estimate.

Does Dental Insurance Cover Bonding?

Coverage for tooth bonding depends on the patient's insurance plan details. Here are some general guidelines regarding dental insurance and bonding costs:

• Cosmetic procedures like bonding may not be covered. Plans often consider bonding an elective, cosmetic treatment.
• Minor restorative bonding may get partial coverage. Fixing small fractures or decayed areas has therapeutic benefit.
• Major restorative bonding is more likely covered. Large repairs needed for chewing function qualify as medically necessary.
• Check policy limits for restorative services. Total annual maximums can limit the plan reimbursement.
• Co-insurance, co-pays, and deductibles will lower the insurance contribution.
• Predeterminations help estimate covered expenses for large treatment plans.

Patients should check with their dental insurer to find out what percentage, if any, they'll cover for a proposed bonding procedure. Request a pretreatment estimate to get the details in writing before starting.

Can Bonding Be Financed?

Since tooth bonding is typically not a large dental expense, payment plans or dental loans are not always necessary. But patients who want to finance larger bonding treatment or combine it with other cosmetic procedures do have options.

Dental Office Payment Plans

Many dentists offer monthly payment plans through their office to help patients budget for treatment. Payment terms, down payment, fees, and interest vary by provider.

Medical Credit Cards

Healthcare credit cards like CareCredit and Capital One Health Finance allow people to pay for treatment with a special revolving credit account. Interest rates, fees, and payment period options apply.

Personal Loans and Credit Cards

General personal loans or credit cards can also provide financing for dental work not covered by insurance. Compare interest rates and repayment terms carefully when borrowing money.

Dental Schools

Receiving bonding treatment through a dental school program is an affordable option for some. Dental students perform the procedures under faculty supervision at a reduced cost.

Consult a financial advisor to explore the right dental financing strategy on a case-by-case basis.

How Long Does Bonding Last?

With proper care, tooth bonding can last 5-10 years or longer. The resin material used is durable, but doesn't last a lifetime. Some factors that influence bonding longevity include:

• Patient habits - Oral hygiene, teeth grinding, nail biting, etc. can wear down bonded resin.
• Bonding material and technique - Higher quality resin applied properly lasts longer.
• Bonding location - Repairs on biting surfaces wear faster than other areas.
• Avoiding trauma - Chips, cracks or hard hits can cause bonding failure.
• Regular dental visits - Checkups help catch loosening or damage early.

Getting bonding touch-ups as needed every few years will enable results to last indefinitely. With periodic maintenance, bonded teeth can look great for many years.

Why Get Bonding Redone?

There are a few common reasons to get tooth bonding replaced after several years:

• Bonding color match fades - The shade may no longer blend with surrounding teeth.
• Bonding resin deteriorates - It can become rough, cracked or compromised over time.
• Tooth alignment changes - Teeth shifting can impact the original bonding.
• New damage occurs - Cracks, chips or gaps may need new bonding.

A fresh application of bonding material provides an easy solution when older restorations show their age. Dentists can match the new bonding to your smile's current color and shape.

Tooth Bonding vs Veneers

Veneers are another option for correcting various tooth flaws. Porcelain veneers are custom made for a permanent, uniform appearance. Here's how bonding and veneers compare:

Cost

Bonding is more affordable, with porcelain veneers costing $925 to $2,500 per tooth. Veneers also often require lab work and multiple visits.

Process

Veneers are more involved, requiring labs for customization and taking 2-3 visits. Bonding provides quicker results in a single appointment.

Preparation

Veneers require removing some natural tooth structure for placement. Bonding is more conservative, only roughening the surface.

Results

Veneers generally have uniform, permanent results. Bonding offers variable correction but may need occasional touch ups.

Maintenance

Veneers are stronger and lower maintenance. Bonding needs more vigilance against new cracks or damage.

The choice comes down to cost, treatment time, and the extent of correction needed. For mild flaws, conservative bonding often makes the most sense.

FAQs about Tooth Bonding

How can I care for my bonded teeth?

Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing, and having regular dental cleanings. Avoid hard or crunchy foods, nail biting, teeth grinding, and other habits that put extra stress on bonded areas.

Does tooth bonding damage healthy tooth structure?

Bonding is very conservative, involving minimal removal of natural tooth. A mild roughening of the surface helps the resin bond adhere for a seamless repair.

Is anesthesia required for bonding?

Bonding is not painful, so numbing is rarely needed. Only if a sensitive tooth area is being treated would a local anesthetic may be used for comfort.

Can tooth bonding fix gaps or spaces?

Yes, dental bonding is an excellent, affordable way to close minor-moderate gaps between teeth for a more uniform smile.

Does food stick to bonded teeth more?

Properly contoured and polished bonding should not attract more food debris than natural teeth. Good oral hygiene also prevents sticking.

Consult With Your Dentist

Tooth bonding is an accessible and affordable option for transforming your smile. Speak with your dentist to learn if it may be the right choice for your needs. They can provide a complete cost assessment and explain what results you can expect.

With proper dental care and occasional touch-ups, bonded teeth can look healthy, natural and beautiful for years to come. Schedule a bonding consultation and take the first step toward the smile you've always wanted!

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.