What Dental Bonding Is
Bonding uses the same tooth-coloured resin used for fillings. The resin is applied to the tooth, shaped by hand, hardened with a special light and polished to blend in with the surrounding enamel. Because the resin is hand-shaded and hand-shaped, the result can look very natural. In many cases bonding needs no drilling.
What Bonding Can Fix
- Small chips or cracks.
- Minor gaps between teeth.
- Teeth that are slightly uneven or too short.
- Small areas of discolouration that do not respond to whitening.
Who Is a Good Candidate
Bonding is a good fit for adults and teens with healthy teeth who want to fix minor cosmetic concerns. For larger changes, such as correcting several teeth at once, your dentist may suggest porcelain veneers instead. Bonding is also less suitable for teeth under heavy biting forces, and your dentist will tell you if another option would last longer.
Benefits of Bonding
- A no-drill repair in many cases.
- Usually completed in a single visit.
- An affordable alternative to veneers.
- Hand-shaped and hand-shaded for natural results.
How Bonding Works
- Consultation: we look at the tooth and discuss what you want to change.
- Shade selection: a resin colour is chosen to match your natural tooth.
- Application: the surface of the tooth is lightly prepared, and the resin is applied and shaped.
- Hardening and polishing: the resin is hardened with a special light, trimmed and polished.
With proper care, bonding typically lasts about five to ten years before it needs to be polished or replaced.
Before Your Visit
- If you want a whiter shade overall, whiten your teeth first, since the resin colour is matched to your current teeth.
- Bring a photo of the look you want, if you have one.
- Tell us about any habits like nail biting or grinding.
- Bring your insurance information.
After Your Treatment
- Avoid biting hard objects such as ice, pens or fingernails.
- Limit coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco, which can stain bonded areas over time.
- Brush twice a day, floss daily and keep your regular cleanings.
- Mild sensitivity can occur and normally settles quickly.
- Call the clinic if the bonding chips or feels rough, your bite feels uneven, or you have swelling, fever, lasting pain or bleeding.
Cost, Insurance and Direct Billing
Bonding is the most affordable cosmetic option in dentistry. Our fees run 5% below the Alberta Dental Association Fee Guide, and you will receive a written cost estimate before treatment begins. If bonding is used to repair a damaged tooth, your insurance may cover part of the cost, and we bill your insurance directly. Financing options and payment plans are available.
Why Choose Allard Station Dental for Bonding
- Natural-looking, hand-shaped results.
- Often a quick, single-visit treatment.
- Clear pricing and direct billing.
- Open seven days a week, with evening hours on weekdays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does dental bonding last?
With proper care, bonding typically lasts about five to ten years before it needs to be polished or replaced.
Does bonding hurt?
Bonding often needs no drilling and usually no anesthetic, so most patients find it comfortable. Your dentist will tell you if numbing is needed.
Can bonded teeth stain?
Yes. Resin can pick up stains from coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco over time, so good habits and regular cleanings help keep it looking its best.
What is the difference between bonding and veneers?
Bonding uses tooth-coloured resin shaped directly on the tooth, usually in one visit. Veneers are porcelain shells made in a lab and can create bigger, longer-lasting changes. Your dentist can help you choose.
Can bonding be used to close gaps between teeth?
Yes, minor gaps can often be closed with bonding. Larger gaps may need other treatment, and your dentist will advise.
How is bonding different from a filling?
Both use tooth-coloured resin. A filling repairs a cavity, while bonding is used to improve the look of a tooth by repairing chips, closing gaps or changing its shape.