A chipped tooth, a small gap, or uneven edges—sometimes little imperfections can make a big difference in how you feel about your smile. That’s where tooth bonding comes in. Quick, affordable, and natural-looking, bonding is one of the easiest ways to restore and refresh your smile.
At The Dentistry Collective in Rancho Bernardo, we use bonding to repair, reshape, and enhance teeth for guests across San Diego. Here’s what you should know about the cost, benefits, and what to expect if you’re considering tooth bonding.
What Is Tooth Bonding and How Does It Work?
Tooth bonding is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that uses a tooth-colored composite resin to repair or improve a tooth’s appearance. It can:
- Repair chips or cracks
- Close small gaps between teeth
- Improve the shape of uneven teeth
- Cover discoloration when whitening isn’t an option
The resin is applied directly to your tooth, shaped to blend in, and hardened with a special light. The result? A smooth, natural-looking repair—usually in under an hour.
Tooth Bonding Cost in Rancho Bernardo
One reason bonding is so popular is affordability. In the San Diego area, bonding typically ranges from $200–$600 per tooth, depending on the complexity.
Bonding is usually considered cosmetic, so insurance may not cover it. However, if it’s needed for a damaged tooth that affects your health, some coverage may apply. At The Dentistry Collective, our team helps you review your benefits before treatment so you know exactly what to expect.
Insurance and Cosmetic Dentistry: What’s Covered?
Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic procedures like whitening, veneers, or cosmetic bonding. They may, however, cover restorative bonding used to fix a broken or decayed tooth.
- Cosmetic bonding for small gaps or chips → usually not covered
- Restorative bonding for tooth damage → may qualify for partial coverage
- Dental sealants (preventive, often for children) → often covered
- Medicare → typically does not cover bonding or other cosmetic repairs
If you’re unsure, our Rancho Bernardo office can help navigate your insurance and provide clear answers before treatment begins.
The Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding
Benefits of bonding:
- Quick, usually completed in one visit
- Comfortable and non-invasive
- Affordable compared to veneers or crowns
- Matches your natural tooth color
Considerations:
- Resin is not as durable as porcelain
- May stain over time, especially from coffee or wine
- Typically lasts 5–10 years before touch-ups or replacement
What Happens During a Tooth Bonding Appointment
Bonding is one of the simplest dental procedures you can have. Here’s what to expect:
- Your dentist chooses a resin shade to match your teeth.
- The tooth is prepped and the resin is applied.
- A curing light hardens the resin in place.
- The tooth is shaped and polished for a natural finish.
No drilling, no anesthesia—just a quick, comfortable process that delivers immediate results.
Should You Whiten Before Bonding?
If you’re planning to whiten your teeth, it’s best to do it before bonding. Composite resin does not respond to whitening treatments.
That means:
- Bonded areas won’t change color with whitening strips or gels.
- Whitening after bonding may cause uneven shades between natural enamel and bonded teeth.
- Professional teeth whitening first ensures a brighter, even-toned smile.
Can Bonding Fix Gaps or Repair Chips?
Yes—bonding is a reliable solution for small cosmetic issues like gaps, chips, and minor cracks. It’s less expensive than veneers and quicker than crowns, making it a go-to option for guests in Rancho Bernardo who want fast results.
How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?
Bonding isn’t permanent, but with good care, it usually lasts 5–10 years. To make it last longer:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid biting ice or hard objects
- Schedule regular checkups and cleanings
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
With proper care, bonding can keep your smile looking great for years.
Restore Your Smile with Tooth Bonding in Rancho Bernardo
Dental bonding is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to improve your smile. Whether you need to fix a chipped tooth, close a gap, or restore uneven edges, our Rancho Bernardo team can help.
📞 Call 858-451-2555 or schedule a consultation online today to see if bonding is the right solution for your smile.
