Cosmetic Bonding

Q: What does cosmetic bonding do?

Cosmetic bonding works to improve the appearance of fractured, decayed, and chipped teeth. The composite resin material will match the color of your teeth and be applied to the affected tooth. It’s often used as an alternative to veneers and fillings.

Q: How long do cosmetic bonds last?

How long your cosmetic bonds last can depend on how well you take care of your teeth. That said, most cosmetic bonds last anywhere from 3- 10 years.

Q: How much does cosmetic bonding cost?

How much your cosmetic bonding costs in total depends on the number of teeth being treated. On average, cosmetic bonding can cost anywhere from $100-$400 per tooth.

Q: Can cosmetic bonding be covered by insurance?

Whether cosmetic bonding is covered by insurance or not depends on the reason for the treatment. If the bonding is medically necessary, it may be covered by insurance, but if it’s for cosmetic reasons, it’s usually not covered.

Q: Can all of your teeth be bonded?

While it is possible to bond all your teeth, it’s typically not recommended. Cosmetic bonding is usually used to address small cosmetic problems on one or two teeth, not all your teeth.

Q: What is the difference between bonding and veneers?

While bonding and veneers are both cosmetic dental treatments, they use different materials. Cosmetic bonding uses a composite resin that is applied directly to the tooth. On the other hand, veneers are custom shells that fit over and are bonded to the teeth.

Q: Are there any risks with cosmetic bonding?

Cosmetic bonding is a safe and effective treatment, but as with any procedure, it can come with risks as well. Some of the risks of cosmetic bonding include teeth sensitivity, staining, and chipping over time.

Q: Is anesthesia used for cosmetic bonding?

More often than not, anesthesia is not needed with cosmetic bonding. That said, if necessary, we can use a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure.

Q: How many times can a tooth be bonded?

A tooth can be bonded multiple times, but it can depend on several factors, including the condition of the tooth and your oral hygiene habits. After the bonding wears down, it can be re-bonded, but continuous bonding can weaken the tooth over time.

Q: Can cosmetic bonding be removed?

Absolutely! Cosmetic bonding is completely reversible. If your cosmetic bonding needs to be removed for whatever reason, your dentist can remove it without any damage to the enamel or the tooth.

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For patients with chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth, cosmetic bonding is a relatively simple and fast procedure that can restore the appearance of their smile. It is also a cost-effective alternative to more extensive procedures, like veneers or crowns. Fennell, Yoxthimer, and Associates, DDS, offer quality, effective cosmetic bonding to our dental patients in Cincinnati.

What is Cosmetic Bonding?

Cosmetic bonding is a tooth-colored composite resin which is applied to a fractured, decayed, chipped, or discolored tooth. It is sometimes chosen as an alternative to veneers, fillings, or other options for repairing teeth. It may also be used to fill spaces in between teeth or to simply change the shape or color of the teeth.

How Does Cosmetic Bonding Work?

First, your dentist will select a composite resin which most closely matches the color of your teeth. Then, the surface of the tooth will be etched to create a rough texture so that the resin will better attach to it. When this is complete, your dentist will apply the resin, which has a putty-like consistency, and mold and smooth it into the proper shape. The resin is then hardened using ultraviolet light. When the resin has hardened, your dentist will further trim and shape it, before finally polishing it so it matches the rest of your tooth’s surface.

The entire cosmetic bonding procedure generally takes between 30 minutes to an hour to complete. You will be asked to avoid eating or drinking anything that can cause stains, such as coffee or tea, for 48 hours after the procedure. To care for your cosmetic bonding, be sure to properly brush your teeth at least twice a day.

Who is a Candidate for Cosmetic Bonding?

Candidates for cosmetic bonding include patients with fractured, decayed, chipped, or discolored teeth who wish to improve the appearance of their teeth. It may also be used simply because of cosmetic preference for those who wish to change the size or shape of their teeth or fill in gaps. In some cases, patients may be better suited to other methods of repairing or improving their teeth, such as crowns or veneers.