Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can fix minor imperfections and enhance your smile without extensive treatments. If you’re considering dental bonding to address chipped, gapped, misshapen, stained, or slightly crooked teeth, understanding the costs involved is essential. This guide explores the factors influencing “How Much Is Dental Bonding,” insurance coverage, and other essential information to help you make an informed decision.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding, also known as cosmetic bonding or composite bonding, is a straightforward cosmetic dental procedure. It involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to correct the size, shape, or color of your teeth. Dental bonding is often used to address the following cosmetic concerns:
- Conceal chips or cracks in teeth
- Close gaps between teeth
- Camouflage tooth discoloration
- Change the shape of teeth
- Make teeth look longer
Beyond aesthetics, dental bonding can benefit individuals prone to cavities. The composite resin creates a smooth surface, reducing crevices where bacteria accumulate and cause decay.
How Much is Dental Bonding? Cost Factors
So, how much is dental bonding? The national average cost for teeth bonding is approximately $431 per tooth, but this price can vary significantly, typically ranging from $288 to $915. Several factors influence the overall cost:
- Number of Teeth: The cost increases with each additional tooth requiring bonding.
- Complexity: More complex procedures requiring more time and material will be more expensive.
- Dentist’s Expertise: Experienced cosmetic dentists may charge more due to their specialized skills.
- Location: Practices in areas with high overhead and demand often have higher prices.
Dental Bonding Cost by State
Here’s a table showing the average cost of dental bonding by state, giving you a general idea of what to expect in your region:
| State/District | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $338 |
| Alaska | $505 |
| Arizona | $430 |
| Arkansas | $347 |
| California | $639 |
| Colorado | $432 |
| Connecticut | $409 |
| Delaware | $429 |
| District of Columbia | $595 |
| Florida | $454 |
| Georgia | $383 |
| Hawaii | $717 |
| Idaho | $431 |
| Illinois | $447 |
| Indiana | $360 |
| Iowa | $351 |
| Kansas | $368 |
| Kentucky | $375 |
| Louisiana | $388 |
| Maine | $402 |
| Maryland | $529 |
| Massachusetts | $475 |
| Michigan | $377 |
| Minnesota | $395 |
| Mississippi | $361 |
| Missouri | $365 |
| Montana | $425 |
| Nebraska | $379 |
| Nevada | $440 |
| New Hampshire | $473 |
| New Jersey | $501 |
| New Mexico | $362 |
| New York | $447 |
| North Carolina | $354 |
| North Dakota | $378 |
| Ohio | $378 |
| Oklahoma | $354 |
| Oregon | $480 |
| Pennsylvania | $424 |
| Rhode Island | $467 |
| South Carolina | $391 |
| South Dakota | $375 |
| Tennessee | $358 |
| Texas | $401 |
| Utah | $442 |
| Vermont | $398 |
| Virginia | $384 |
| Washington | $527 |
| West Virginia | $363 |
| Wisconsin | $387 |
| Wyoming | $383 |
Additional Costs to Consider
Before getting dental bonding, you may need a dental exam, cleaning, or teeth whitening. These additional services will contribute to the total cost:
| Procedure | Average Cost | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Dental Exam and Cleaning | $203 | $50 to $350 |
| Teeth Whitening by Laser | $792 | $611 to $1,368 |
| Teeth Whitening by Zoom | $583 | $463 to $1,011 |
Dental bonding generally doesn’t require anesthesia or multiple visits, which can help keep costs down.
Will Dental Insurance Cover Dental Bonding?
Insurance coverage for dental bonding depends on the reason for the procedure. If the bonding is necessary to repair structural damage (e.g., chipped or cracked teeth), it may be partially or fully covered. However, if the bonding is purely cosmetic (e.g., closing a small gap), most dental insurance plans typically won’t cover it.
Before proceeding, confirm the expected charges and your insurance coverage with both your dentist and insurance provider. Many dental offices provide payment plans and dental financing options, such as the CareCredit credit card.
Benefits of Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a popular choice because of its many advantages:
- Minimal Invasiveness: Requires no removal of tooth structure.
- Versatility: Corrects chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration.
- Color Matching: Composites can be matched to the natural tooth color.
- Convenience: Completed in one office visit.
- No Downtime: No recovery period is needed.
- Safety: Poses minimal risk to oral health.
- Durability: Lasts 5 to 10 years with proper care.
- Reversibility: Can be reversed since no enamel is removed.
- Affordability: One of the least expensive cosmetic dental procedures.
The Dental Bonding Procedure: What to Expect
If you’re a suitable candidate, your dentist will perform the following steps:
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Preparation: A professional cleaning may be performed. Teeth whitening may be recommended beforehand.
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Shade Selection: A composite shade is selected to match your teeth.
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Tooth Preparation: The tooth surface is roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied.
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Composite Application: The composite resin is applied, molded, and smoothed.
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Curing: The resin is hardened using an ultraviolet light.
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Shaping and Polishing: The tooth is shaped to align with surrounding teeth and polished for a smooth, natural finish.
The procedure is usually painless and doesn’t require anesthesia. It typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.
After Dental Bonding: Care and Maintenance
Following the procedure, you can eat and drink normally. Some tooth sensitivity may occur for a few days. Here are some tips to maintain your dental bonds:
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush.
- Use non-abrasive, fluoride toothpaste.
- Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash.
- Limit staining foods and tobacco.
- Avoid hard and acidic foods.
- Manage teeth grinding.
- Use teeth for eating only.
- Avoid whitening treatments.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Dental Bonding vs. Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are another cosmetic option. They are custom-made shells that adhere to the teeth’s surfaces, often requiring some enamel removal. While more expensive, veneers offer a more dramatic transformation and greater longevity.
| Category | Teeth Bonding | Porcelain Veneers |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Appointments | Usually one | Two to three |
| Enamel Removal Required | Rare | Almost always |
| Color | Susceptible to staining | Stable |
| Reversible | Yes | No |
| Longevity | 5 to 10 years | 10 to 20 years |
| Average Cost | $431 | $1,817 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does teeth bonding last?
Dental bonding typically lasts 5 to 10 years, depending on factors like tooth location, eating habits, and oral hygiene.
How many times can you rebond a tooth?
You can rebond a tooth multiple times, but excessive rebonding can weaken the tooth.
Can you bond a molar?
Bonding molars is generally not recommended due to the high pressure from chewing.
Financing Options
Consider the CareCredit credit card to finance dental bonding costs not covered by insurance.
Author Bio
Adrienne Santos-Longhurst is a health and lifestyle writer with nearly two decades of experience. Her work has appeared in Healthline, Insider, and Medical News Today.
