Dental bonding is an economical alternative to porcelain veneers. Typically completed in one visit, dental bonding can be used to address a range of dental concerns. With dental bonding, Dr. Deckard can treat:
- Chipped teeth
- Gaps between the teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Discolored teeth
- Decayed teeth
- Reshape the teeth
Dental bonding is ideal for both young and adult patients. Dental bonding provides beautiful, natural-looking results without the need for long or invasive treatment. The dental bonding material is a highly malleable material. A dentist can shape, mold, and color match it to blend in with an existing tooth. The tooth bonding procedure is painless and only requires one short visit to our Washington, DC dental office.
Cosmetic dentist Dr. Justin Deckard offers dental bonding as a cost-effective solution for common cosmetic and restorative dental concerns. Dr. Deckard can create a comprehensive solution to address a wide range of dental concerns. Our goal is to help each of our patients achieve a healthy, stable, and beautiful smile.
The Tooth Bonding Procedure
A tooth bonding procedure is not invasive and we can complete it in a single visit. The dental bonding procedure begins with a light etching to the surface of the affected teeth. For the bonding material to adhere to the tooth, we will need to remove a small amount of enamel.
Next, the dentist will carefully apply a conditioning liquid to the tooth. Dr. Deckard will then apply the bonding resin onto the tooth. He will shape the bonding resin by hand to reach the desired aesthetic.
Once the shape is just right, Dr. Deckard will use a specially calibrated light to cure the bonding resin into place. Once the bonding resin is hardened into place, the bonded areas are buffed and polished to reveal a natural shine.
Patients can enjoy their new smiles immediately after their treatment. Dr. Deckard will discuss any aftercare instructions after the procedure. The downside to choosing tooth bonding is that it is not as durable as porcelain veneers or dental crowns. The results can last anywhere from three to ten years the tooth if you properly maintain the tooth. Dr. Deckard highly recommends avoiding chewing on hard foods or items. Doing so can chip the bonding material. This includes chewing on ice, pen caps, your fingernails, hard candy, etc. Be sure to follow the aftercare instructions to ensure your newly bonded teeth remain stable and healthy. With routine dental visits and good oral hygiene, tooth bonding can last for many years.
Tooth Bonding FAQs
Is tooth bonding reversible?
Yes. Tooth bonding is not a permanent treatment. Dr. Deckard uses it to temporarily hide cosmetic imperfections while you wait for a permanent solution. Additionally, he will use it for minor chips or damage to a tooth. For a more permanent solution that addresses the same issues that tooth bonding can fix, consider getting porcelain veneers.
Do I have to change my diet after tooth bonding?
Unlike traditional braces that come with certain food restrictions, there is no need to change your diet after getting tooth bonding. However, if you chew on hard food or ice, you could develop cracks or chips, but this is still a rare occurrence.
Can you put dental veneers over tooth bonding?
No. Although they can address the same cosmetic dental issues, you cannot use them at the same time, on the same tooth. You can either choose the permanent option with porcelain veneers or go the economical route with dental bonding while you decide which permanent treatment option is best for you.
How much does tooth bonding cost?
The cost of your dental bonding treatment will depend on a few factors. If you have dental insurance and need the procedure to preserve the tooth or restore function, then your insurance will likely offer some coverage. However, if you choose to have your teeth bonded for aesthetic purposes, this would be considered a cosmetic treatment and your insurance will likely not offer coverage. Minor reshaping of a single tooth can cost less than $300. More in-depth treatment, such as evening out your bite, can cost a few thousand dollars.
Does insurance cover tooth bonding?
Your dental insurance may cover tooth bonding if they deem it medically necessary to restore the function of your tooth, such as repairing a chip or filling a cavity. However, most dental insurance companies will typically not cover cosmetic bonding if it is for purely aesthetic purposes. It’s best to check with your specific plan to see what procedures your dental insurance covers.
Is a dental bonding procedure painful?
Dental bonding is generally not a painful procedure. The process involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the surface of the tooth and then shaping and polishing it to match the surrounding teeth. This is typically done without the need for anesthesia or numbing agents, as the procedure is minimally invasive. However, some patients may experience minor discomfort or sensitivity during or after the procedure. Your dentist can provide more information on what to expect during your specific bonding treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
To determine if tooth bonding is right for your smile, visit our Washington, DC dentist office. To schedule an appointment, call (202) 851-7554 or request an appointment online.