Dental Bonding in San Diego

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a solution for fixing cosmetic imperfections or minor damage to tooth enamel. It involves the use of a composite resin material applied to the surface of the tooth. The bonding material can be matched to the color of your natural teeth and then adhered directly to the tooth and shaped perfectly to cover dental flaws or strengthen the tooth’s structure, restoring the beauty and strength of your smile.

Dental bonding vs porcelain veneers

Both dental bonding and porcelain veneers are often used to cover minor dental flaws such as cracked enamel, chipped teeth, stained teeth, misshapen teeth, and gapped teeth, but there are some significant differences between the two:

• Porcelain veneers are tooth-colored shells that are made in a lab, so more than one appointment is needed. 
• Dental bonding uses a material that can be shaped directly on the tooth in a single visit.
• Porcelain veneers are more costly upfront but do last longer than dental bonding. 
• Dental bonding costs less upfront but is not as durable or long-lasting as porcelain veneers.
• Porcelain veneers are permanent.
• Bonds are reversible. 
• Porcelain veneers reflect light and look more like natural enamel.
• Dental bonding is not quite as reflective as natural enamel. 

Many patients opt for a combination of dental bonding on the back teeth and porcelain veneers on the front teeth. Others start with dental bonding for an immediate solution and then upgrade to veneers at a later date. Your dentist can help determine which solution is best for you.

Why is dental bonding treatment necessary?

In many cases, dental bonding treatment is a solution for a cosmetic issue, which means it’s not necessary in scientific terms. But studies have shown that those who hide their smiles because they’re embarrassed about the appearance of their teeth are missing out on some key health and social benefits associated with smiling. Their self-esteem and self-confidence can diminish as well. The dental bonding treatment can allow them to smile freely, boosting their self-esteem and self-confidence.

On the other hand, if you have cracked or chipped teeth, dental bonding or other treatment is necessary to help prevent further damage. Even the smallest cracks or chips can allow bacteria to enter areas impossible to reach with a toothbrush, eventually causing tooth decay, weakening the tooth’s structure, and even leading to tooth infection or tooth loss. Dental bonding can help seal the crack or chip, strengthen the tooth, and decrease the likelihood of future complications.

Dental bonding aftercare and maintenance

Dental bonding aftercare is similar to a standard oral hygiene routine: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist at least two times every year. Avoid chewing ice cubes, pens, and raw carrots. Refrain from biting your nails and opening packages with your teeth. Additionally, because the dental bonding material is more susceptible to staining than natural teeth or veneers, it’s also best to avoid teeth-staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, red wine, and dark fruits.

How much does dental bonding cost?

As with any other dental procedure, the dental bonding treatment cost will vary depending on a range of factors, including the scope of treatment, the dentist’s skill, expertise, and reputation, as well as the location of their practice. At Smile Designers in San Diego, we offer dental bonding treatment for anywhere from $300 to $600 per tooth.

If you’re ready to optimize your oral health and restore your smile to its full radiance, give Smile Designers a call at (619) 222-6000 to schedule a consultation today.