Dental Bonding

What Bonding Can Fix

• Small chips and cracks on front teeth.
• Small gaps between teeth.
• Teeth that look short, uneven or slightly misshapen.
• Stains or spots that do not respond to whitening.
• Exposed root surfaces, in some cases.

The Bonding Procedure Step by Step

• Shade selection: we choose a resin shade that matches your teeth.
• Preparation: the tooth surface is lightly roughened and conditioned so the resin sticks well. Anesthetic is often not needed unless a cavity is being treated.
• Application: the resin is applied in layers and shaped to the right contour.
• Hardening: a curing light sets each layer.
• Polishing: the tooth is trimmed and polished so it matches the shine of your natural teeth.

Bonding Compared With Other Options

Bonding is a good choice for small cosmetic changes because it is quick and conservative. For larger changes, or to improve many teeth at once, porcelain veneers may be a better fit. If you are mostly concerned about stains, whitening may be all you need, and if you have decay, a tooth-coloured filling repairs the tooth itself. Your dentist will help you pick the right treatment.

How Long Does Bonding Last?

Bonding can last several years with good care. Because resin is not as strong as natural enamel or porcelain, it can chip and may need repair or replacement over time. Avoid biting your nails or chewing on pens, ice or other hard objects.

Caring for Bonded Teeth

Brush and floss as normal and keep up with your regular cleanings. Bonded areas can pick up stains from coffee, tea and tobacco, so limit them where you can. If your bonding feels rough or sharp, or if it chips, call us.

Common Reasons Patients Choose Bonding

Many patients come in after chipping a tooth on something hard, or because a small gap has bothered them for years. Bonding is often a good first step because it is quick, usually painless and keeps most of your natural tooth. You can see the result the same day and decide later whether you want a longer-term option.

When Bonding May Not Be the Best Choice

Bonding works best for small changes. If a tooth is badly broken, has deep decay or needs strong protection, a crown or filling may be better. If many teeth need work, veneers or clear aligners may give a more complete result. We explain the pros and cons so you can choose with confidence.

Bonding for Children and Teens

Bonding can also repair a chipped tooth in a teen after a sports injury, as long as the tooth is healthy. If your child has a chipped tooth, call us and we will advise whether bonding or another treatment is the best way to protect it. Our children's dentistry team is happy to help.

Before Your Visit

• Let us know what you would like to change and whether you are considering other options.
• Whiten first if you want a brighter shade, so the resin matches your final colour.
• Tell us about any sensitivity, grinding or clenching habits.

After Your Treatment

• Brush and floss as you normally would.
• Avoid biting hard objects, nails or ice, and avoid using your teeth as tools.
• Limit coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco to help prevent staining.
• Call us if the bonding feels sharp or high when you bite.

Cost, Insurance and Offers

The cost of bonding depends on how many teeth are treated and the amount of work involved. When bonding repairs a damaged tooth, insurance may cover part of it, but purely cosmetic bonding usually is not covered. We accept most insurances and offer direct billing, and our team can help you understand your coverage.