Dental Bonding in Winchester by Dr. Radwa Sobieh

Dental bonding is a conservative cosmetic treatment that improves the appearance of chipped, discolored, or misshapen teeth using composite resin to repair and restore the tooth surface.

Bonding can transform the appearance of a smile. The procedure is commonly used for:

• Repairing chips and minor cracks
• Covering stained or discolored enamel
• Closing small gaps between teeth
• Remodeling the contours of teeth which are undersized, crooked, or misshapen
• Rebuilding areas where enamel erosion has taken place
• Creating inconspicuous, tooth-colored fillings

The procedure begins with an exam to make sure the tooth is healthy and a good candidate for bonding. The tooth surface is prepared, and a specially formulated dental adhesive is applied which enables the composite resin to “bond” to the tooth structure.

How long does dental bonding last?

Bonding usually lasts several years before it needs touching up or replacing. It lasts longer if you avoid biting nails, pens and ice, and wear a night guard if you grind your teeth.

Does dental bonding hurt?

Usually not. Most bonding is done on the surface of the tooth without numbing. If we’re filling a cavity at the same time, we numb the area first.

Bonding or veneers: which should I choose?

Bonding costs less, takes one visit and removes little or no enamel, but it can chip and stain over time. Porcelain veneers last longer and resist stains, but cost more and take more than one visit. Our post on the pros and cons of veneers compares them in more detail.

Can bonded teeth be whitened?

No. Whitening gel doesn’t change the color of bonding material. If you want whiter teeth, whiten first and then match the bonding to your new shade.

How much does dental bonding cost?

It depends on how many teeth and how much material each one needs. We’ll give you the cost at your visit. Insurance sometimes covers bonding that repairs a chip or a cavity, but not purely cosmetic bonding.