How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?

Dental bonding is a popular and affordable way to fix chips, cracks, and gaps or improve the appearance of your smile. But like any dental procedure, it’s natural to wonder how long the results will hold up.

Find out how long dental bonding lasts, how to care for it, and how it stacks up against other dental options below!

What Is Teeth Bonding?

Teeth bonding, also known as dental bonding, is an easy cosmetic procedure that fixes imperfections like chips, cracks, discoloration, or gaps in the teeth. It can also change the shape or length of a tooth and cosmetically replace amalgam fillings.

Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored resin that’s shaped and hardened to blend naturally with your smile.

How It Works

The whole procedure takes about 30 to 60 minutes per tooth. Here’s what you can typically expect:

Picking the Shade: Your dentist will choose a composite resin shade that closely matches the color of your natural teeth.
Preparation: The surface of the tooth is slightly roughened, and a conditioning liquid is applied to help the resin adhere better.
Shaping the Resin: The resin is applied to the tooth, molded, and shaped to achieve the desired appearance.
Hardening It: A special light is used to harden the resin so it stays in place.
Finishing Touches: After the resin hardens, your dentist may trim, shape, and polish the bonded area so it blends in with the surrounding teeth.

Dental bonding typically lasts between 3 and 10 years, but how long it holds up largely depends on a few factors.

What Affects the Lifespan of Tooth Bonding?

Bite Force

If you have a strong bite or grind your teeth, it might put extra stress on the bonding, which could cause it to chip or break faster.

Quality of the Material

The type of composite resin your dentist uses can also have a hand in how long your bonding lasts. As you’d expect, higher-quality materials tend to be more durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Extent of Damage

Bonding used to repair major damage may not hold up as long as bonding for minor cosmetic fixes because it experiences more wear — the more extensive the repair, the more stress the bonding may have on it.

Ongoing Care

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can catch any issues early on and keep your bonding in good shape with timely touch-ups.

Dental Bonding FAQs

How Much Does Dental Bonding Cost?

The average is somewhere between $300 and $600 per tooth. However, prices may vary based on your location, the work needed, and your dentist’s experience. You should check with your dentist and insurance provider to see what’s covered.

Dental Bonding vs. Veneers: Which Is Better?

It depends on your needs, goals, and budget. Dental bonding is ideal for minor repairs like chips and cracks. It’s an affordable, quick option that requires minimal preparation, but it’s less durable and may need touch-ups over time.

Veneers offer a more polished, long-lasting solution. While they’re more expensive and require enamel removal, they deliver a natural and durable finish.

Can Dental Bonding Fill In Gaps in My Smile?

Yes, bonding can fill in small gaps or “black triangles,” which may be caused by gum recession. The resin can be layered to look natural and match your teeth.

That said, there are certain limitations. While bonding is pretty versatile, it’s not always the best solution for larger gaps caused by decay or accidents. In those cases, restorative options like a dental crown may be better.

Can Bonding Be Added to the Back of Front Teeth?

Definitely! You can apply composite bonding to virtually any surface of the tooth. If there’s damage or decay on the back of a front tooth, bonding can cover it.

Have Questions About Teeth Bonding? Contact Us!

If you have any questions about dental bonding or would like to schedule a consultation, contact Coastal Dental Group! Our experienced Point Pleasant team can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

Call 732-714-1030 to book an appointment today!

About the Author

Dr. Joseph Zicchino provides a wide array of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign® Clear Aligners, at his practice in Point Pleasant, NJ. He earned his dental degree from NYU Dental School and established Coastal Dental Group in 2004. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (732) 714-1030!