Quick Answer: How Much Does Composite Bonding Cost?
The average cost for dental bonding typically ranges from $150 to $450 per tooth.
This is admittedly a wide range, but keep in mind that prices can vary based on multiple factors including your dental insurance, your geographical location, the complexity of the procedure, and whether the bonding is medically necessary or for cosmetic improvement.
Cost Breakdown
Base Cost
The base cost of composite bonding will depend on the dentist's fee and typically includes the initial consultation, examination, and any required radiographs (x-rays). The full fee for this examination will likely be $150+, but your dental insurance is likely to cover some or all of the fee.
Insurance Coverage
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion of restorative procedures like composite bonding, especially if the procedure is necessary for the health of your teeth and not just for cosmetic purposes. Make sure to consult with your insurance provider to understand what part of the cost is covered.
Number of Teeth
Composite bonding is a per-tooth procedure. This means that the total cost of your treatment will depend on the number of teeth you need to have bonded. Depending on your smile line, cosmetic treatments on your “front teeth” may include 6, 8, or even 10 teeth per arch.
Number of Surfaces
If the tooth damage is severe, requiring the restoration of multiple surfaces of the tooth, the cost can be higher. Bonding on a single surface will be less expensive than a tooth that requires 5 surfaces of bonding. Similarly, the costs might increase if there are other complicating factors, such as gum disease, that need to be addressed before bonding.
Geographic Location
The cost of living in your area can affect the price of dental procedures, including composite bonding. Urban areas with a higher cost of living, such as New York City or San Francisco, typically have higher dental fees than rural areas or smaller towns.
How Long Does Composite Bonding Last?
Composite bonding is a durable dental treatment, but it's not permanent. On average, composite bonding can last between 5 to 10 years, depending on various factors. These factors include:
Oral Hygiene Practices: Consistent and proper oral care can significantly extend the life of composite bonding. Regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings can prevent decay around or under the bonding material.
Dietary Habits: Certain foods and drinks can stain the composite resin material over time. Coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products, for example, can discolor the bonding. Moreover, habits like biting nails or chewing on hard items like ice or pens can damage the bonding.
Regular Dental Checkups: Routine dental visits allow your dentist to check on the status of the bonding and make any necessary repairs before minor damage becomes a significant issue.
Remember that while composite bonding is durable, it's not as strong as your natural teeth. Taking care of your oral health and avoiding behaviors that could damage the bonding can help ensure it lasts as long as possible. And even though composite bonding doesn't last forever, its non-invasive nature and affordability make it easy to replace or repair when necessary.
Alternatives to Composite Bonding
For the cosmetic restoration of front teeth, composite bonding will almost always be the least expensive option. However, there are alternative treatments such as veneers and crowns, although they tend to be more expensive.
Veneers vs. Composite Bonding
Veneers are a popular alternative to composite bonding. They are thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front of the teeth.
Veneers generally offer a more durable and long-lasting solution compared to bonding. They are resistant to staining and can mimic the light-reflecting properties of natural teeth. However, veneers are more expensive than bonding (often $1,000+ per tooth), require more extensive preparation of the tooth, and the process is not reversible.
Crowns vs. Composite Bonding
Crowns are another alternative to consider. A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire tooth.
Crowns are typically used when a large portion of the tooth is damaged or decayed. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or full gold. While crowns are extremely durable and offer a high level of protection for the tooth, they are more invasive and expensive (often $1,000+ per tooth) than composite bonding. The procedure typically requires at least two dental visits, and the tooth must be filed down significantly before the crown can be placed.
Final Thoughts
Although composite bonding is less expensive than alternative treatments, it's still essential to discuss all options with your dentist.
If there is a less invasive option for improving the cosmetics of your front teeth (such as tooth whitening), this should be considered first.
Additionally, you should consider not only cost but also the longevity and maintenance of the treatment. Like most dental treatments, composite bonding is not a “forever” fix. Consider the ongoing expenses — will you be able to pay to have the bonding redone in the next decade? — before making a decision. In some cases, veneers or crowns may be less expensive in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is composite bonding covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover a portion of the cost if the bonding is required for improving dental health, not just aesthetics. If a tooth is chipped or decayed, it is more likely to be covered by insurance than if you simply want to achieve a more cosmetic look on otherwise healthy teeth.
How long does composite bonding last?
Composite bonding typically lasts 5-10 years with proper care. However, it might need to be repaired or replaced earlier due to wear and tear. Good dental hygiene is essential, since tooth decay where the tooth and the bonding meets is a common cause of failure.
Is composite bonding cheaper than veneers?
Yes, composite bonding is generally less expensive than veneers, making it a more affordable option for improving your smile. However, it may not last as long as veneers. Be sure to consider not just the upfront cost, but also the ongoing maintenance costs.
What are the drawbacks of composite bonding?
While composite bonding is effective and affordable, it's not as durable as other restorative options like crowns or veneers, and it can stain over time. The esthetic result of composite bonding is often worse than that of crowns or veneers, since crowns and veneers can be built/shaped in a laboratory, whereas bonding will need to be built/shaped in the mouth. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help maintain its longevity and appearance.
Can composite bonding be whitened?
No, composite material does not respond to whitening treatments. If you wish to whiten your teeth, it's recommended to do so before having composite bonding done.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.