Resin bonding is just like having simple fillings done and often involves minimal to no tooth structure being drilled away. We match the shade (or shades) of your teeth perfectly to blend the resin around your tooth while correcting the shape of the tooth to whatever is desired. Corrections may involve lengthening worn down teeth, correcting the appearance of chipped teeth and adding to the unwanted space between teeth.
1-3 hour appointment depending on how many teeth are involved
If it is a bigger correction we may need a consult appointment first, with photos, to assess the shape and colour of the teeth. We will then discuss your goals and finalise a plan for cosmetic improvement that is in harmony with your face and your individual smile.
Anaesthesia is often not needed for minor corrections but may be given for longer procedures, to keep you comfortable. We use a computer controlled local anaesthetic delivery system to make sure you don’t feel a thing!
We may remove old fillings and do some slight bevelling on the tooth surface to ensure the colour blends perfectly with your natural tooth. For larger corrections, sometimes it is necessary to remove some tooth structure to achieve the best shape but we will always discuss this with you beforehand. Most often, no further tooth preparation is needed and we simply ADD.
Resin bonding require lots of fine tuning and polishing to look good, and this is often most of the work. Sometime we need to bring you back for a short polishing appointment 2 weeks after the main treatment. Bite adjustments are also important to prevent the risk of your resins chipping or breaking too soon and this is all done at the same time as the main treatment.
Care must be taken with eating to ensure that the resin doesn’t break and regularly brushing/flossing will keep them stain free for longer. If looked after resins can last many years. If cosmetic bonding is performed because of worn teeth from grinding, a nightguard will be recommended and must be worn.
Your dental care as well as your bite will ultimately determine the longevity of your resin bonding.
This is highly variable and dependent on each individual’s risk factors such as diet, habits and bite. On average resins have been shown to last between 5-8 years. It is important to note that staining can still occur much sooner and your brushing/flossing routine will determine this.
If you are unhappy with the colour of your teeth and are planning to bleach your teeth, you must do this BEFORE getting resins. Resin or porcelain dental work cannot be bleached and therefore, will not change colour.
We stand by our work. If this has happened unexpectedly soon and despite taking care as advised, we will likely repair it at no cost or a nominal fee, depending on circumstance.
Resin bonding cost can range between $300-700 per tooth. If a splint is recommended, this usually costs $700.
