If you have a chipped tooth or a small gap, dental bonding is the most affordable way to fix your smile in a single visit. Unlike veneers, it’s fast, painless, and budget-friendly.
In the United States, the average cost of tooth bonding ranges from $300 to $600 per tooth.
What Determines the Price?
Why do some clinics charge $300 while others charge $800? Here’s the breakdown:
- Location: Clinics in high-cost states like California or New York will always be on the higher end.
- The Damage: Filling a small chip is cheaper than closing a large gap or reshaping an entire tooth.
- Expertise: Cosmetic specialists charge more for their artistic skill in matching the resin to your natural tooth color.
Cost Comparison: Bonding vs. Others
| Procedure | Average Cost (USA) | Longevity |
| Tooth Bonding | $300 – $600 | 3-7 Years |
| Veneers | $900 – $2,500 | 10-15 Years |
| Dental Crowns | $800 – $1,800 | 15+ Years |
Does Insurance Cover It?
This is the #1 question for US patients.
- Restorative (Yes): If bonding is used to fix a cavity or a tooth broken by injury, insurance usually covers 50-80%.
- Cosmetic (No): If you are just closing a gap for a better smile, you’ll likely pay 100% out of pocket.
How to Maintain Your Bonding (and Your Investment)
Bonding material (composite resin) is porous, meaning it can stain from coffee or tea much faster than natural enamel.
Expert Maintenance Tip: To keep your bonded teeth healthy and prevent the surrounding gums from receding, a balanced oral microbiome is essential. Many patients use ProvaDent to support gum health. Stronger gums mean your bonding stays secure and looks natural for much longer.
The Procedure: What to Expect
- Preparation: No anesthesia is usually needed unless there’s decay. The dentist roughens the tooth surface slightly.
- Application: A putty-like resin is applied, shaped, and smoothed.
- Curing: A special UV light “bonds” the material to the tooth instantly.
- Polishing: The final step ensures the tooth has a natural sheen.
FAQ (USA Focus)
Q: Can I whiten bonded teeth?
A: No. Whitening gels do not work on resin. If you want a whiter smile, whiten your teeth before getting the bonding so the dentist can match the brighter shade.
Q: Is bonding painful?
A: Not at all. It’s one of the few dental procedures that is completely non-invasive.