Cosmetic Dentistry

Teeth Bonding

Professional Teeth Bonding

What You Need to Know

What it is: Dental tooth bonding is a quick cosmetic procedure where tooth-colored resin material is applied directly to your teeth to repair chips, fill gaps, cover stains, or improve shape. It's completed in a single visit.

Typical appointment time: 30-60 minutes per tooth

Recovery/Results timeline: Immediate results; no recovery time needed

Best for:
  • • Small chips or cracks
  • • Minor gaps between teeth
  • • Surface stains or discoloration
  • • Slightly misshapen teeth
  • • Affordable cosmetic smile improvements

Understanding Teeth Bonding

How Bonding Can Quickly Improve Your Smile

A small chip from an accident. A gap you've been self-conscious about. Discoloration that makes you hesitant to smile. These dental imperfections might seem minor, but they can significantly affect your confidence. Many Nashville patients put off addressing these issues because they assume expensive or time-consuming treatment is necessary. Teeth bonding offers an affordable, immediate alternative that delivers real results in just one appointment.

Dental bonding uses tooth-colored composite resin—the same material used in modern fillings—carefully applied and shaped directly onto your teeth. Unlike veneers that require laboratory fabrication or crowns that require significant tooth reduction, bonding is quick and conservative. Your dentist applies the resin, shapes it precisely to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth, and hardens it with a special light. The entire process typically takes 30-60 minutes per tooth, and you leave with an improved smile the same day.

Bonding isn't permanent—resin typically lasts 5-10 years depending on location and care—but it offers an affordable way to address cosmetic concerns immediately. For patients considering other options or wanting to try cosmetic improvement before committing to more extensive treatment like veneers, bonding is an excellent solution. Whether you need a single tooth improved or multiple cosmetic fixes, bonding delivers natural-looking results without the cost or complexity of other treatments.

The Benefits

Why Patients Choose Teeth Bonding

1

Affordable Cosmetic Solution

Bonding typically costs $100-$400 per tooth, making it one of the most budget-friendly cosmetic dental options. It's perfect for patients who want immediate cosmetic improvement without the investment required for veneers or crowns.

2

Same-Day Results

Unlike veneers that require multiple appointments and lab work, bonding is completed in a single visit. You walk in with an imperfection and walk out with an improved smile the same day—no temporary teeth or waiting period.

3

Minimally Invasive

Bonding typically requires no tooth preparation or removal of healthy enamel. The composite resin is simply applied to the surface of your tooth, making it the most conservative cosmetic option available.

4

Natural Appearance

Modern composite resins match natural tooth color and translucency beautifully. When properly applied and polished, bonding blends seamlessly with your natural teeth and looks completely natural.

5

Versatile Corrections

Bonding addresses multiple cosmetic concerns—chips, gaps, stains, and minor shape issues—all in one procedure. Your dentist can often improve several teeth during a single appointment.

6

Easily Adjusted or Modified

If you want changes to your bonding, they can be adjusted or modified at any appointment. The material can be reshaped, re-colored, or removed without damaging your natural tooth structure.

Your Bonding Experience

What to Expect During Dental Bonding

Before Your Appointment

  • No special preparation is needed before bonding

  • Brush and floss normally before your appointment

  • Discuss your cosmetic goals with our scheduling team so we schedule adequate time

During Your Visit

1
Consultation and Shade Selection

Your dentist examines the teeth to be bonded and discusses your cosmetic goals. We select a composite resin shade that matches your natural tooth color as closely as possible, ensuring the bonding blends seamlessly.

2
Surface Preparation

The tooth surface is lightly cleaned and a conditioning liquid is applied to help the resin bond securely. This minimally invasive preparation typically requires no anesthetic or drilling—it's completely painless.

3
Composite Resin Application

The tooth-colored composite resin is carefully applied to the prepared tooth surface. Your dentist shapes and contours it to match your natural tooth anatomy and achieve your desired appearance.

4
Light Hardening

A specialized blue light hardens the composite resin, bonding it securely to your tooth. This process takes just seconds and is completely painless. Multiple layers may be applied to build up the desired shape and appearance.

5
Shaping and Polishing

Once the resin is hardened, your dentist carefully shapes and polishes it to match your natural tooth surface perfectly. This meticulous finishing ensures the bonding is both beautiful and functional.

6
Bite Check and Adjustment

We check your bite to ensure the bonding doesn't interfere with normal chewing. Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure comfort and proper function.

After Treatment

  • You can eat and drink immediately after bonding—no waiting period required

  • Avoid chewing directly on the bonded tooth for the first 24 hours if possible, giving the resin maximum hardening time

  • Treat bonded teeth gently to maximize longevity—avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or using teeth as tools

  • Brush and floss normally to maintain bonded teeth and surrounding areas

  • Schedule regular dental visits to ensure bonding remains intact and healthy teeth underneath remain strong

Is Bonding Right for You?

Good Candidates for Dental Bonding

You may be a good candidate if:

  • Adults with small chips or minor cracks affecting one or a few teeth

  • People with minor gaps between teeth seeking affordable closure

  • Individuals with surface stains or discoloration on visible teeth

  • Patients wanting quick cosmetic improvement without significant investment

  • Those seeking a trial of cosmetic improvement before considering permanent options

  • Anyone seeking a conservative, minimally invasive cosmetic solution

Other options may be better if:

  • Large gaps or significant spacing might be better addressed with orthodontics or veneers

  • Major damage or decay affecting tooth structure might require crowns or other restorative treatments

  • Severe staining or internal discoloration might benefit more from professional whitening or veneers

Dental bonding is an excellent option for many cosmetic concerns. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation and whether bonding is the best choice for your smile goals.

Your Questions Answered

Common Questions About Teeth Bonding

How much does dental bonding cost?

Dental bonding typically costs $100-$400 per tooth at Nations Dental Studio, depending on the size and complexity of the repair. This makes bonding one of the most affordable cosmetic dental options available. A simple chip repair might cost $150-$250, while filling a gap or covering stains might be $200-$350. We provide specific pricing after examining your teeth and discussing your cosmetic goals. Many patients find that bonding is an excellent value for immediate smile improvement.

How long does bonding last?

Dental bonding typically lasts 5-10 years depending on the location on your tooth, the size of the bonding, and how gently you treat it. Bonding on front teeth tends to last longer than on chewing surfaces where it experiences more stress. To maximize longevity: avoid chewing hard objects, be gentle with bonded teeth, maintain excellent oral hygiene, and visit us regularly. When bonding eventually wears down or needs refreshing, it can be easily replaced with new material.

Is dental bonding strong?

Modern dental composite resins used for bonding are quite strong for cosmetic repairs and minor structural fixes. However, bonding is not as durable as crowns or veneers on teeth that experience significant chewing force. We avoid placing bonding in areas with extreme stress. For front-tooth cosmetic improvements or small chips, bonding is perfectly adequate. For teeth that bear heavy chewing loads, we might recommend crowns or other restorative options.

Can bonding stain or discolor?

Composite resin used for bonding can potentially stain over time, especially at the margin where the resin meets natural tooth structure. However, quality bonding resists staining much better than natural teeth. To keep bonding looking fresh: avoid dark-colored beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine; don't use tobacco products; maintain excellent oral hygiene; and visit us for regular cleanings. If bonding does become discolored, it can be easily repolished or replaced.

Is bonding reversible?

Yes, dental bonding is reversible. Unlike veneers that require enamel removal, bonding is applied directly to the tooth surface and can be removed without damaging healthy tooth structure. If you ever want to remove bonding or switch to another cosmetic option, your dentist can safely remove it. However, most patients are very satisfied with their bonding and keep it for many years.

Can I get bonding on my back teeth?

While bonding is primarily used for front-tooth cosmetic improvements, it can be placed on back teeth in limited situations. However, back teeth experience more chewing force, which can wear bonding more quickly. For back teeth, crowns or other restorative options often provide better longevity and durability. During your consultation, we'll assess your specific situation and recommend the best treatment option for each tooth.

Does bonding hurt?

No, dental bonding typically doesn't hurt. The procedure requires no drilling or tooth reduction, and the surface preparation is painless. Most patients need no anesthetic. If you have extreme tooth sensitivity, we can apply a numbing gel beforehand. The light used to harden the resin doesn't generate painful heat. Overall, bonding is one of the most comfortable cosmetic dental procedures available.

Can bonding fix a gap between my front teeth?

Yes, bonding is an excellent solution for small gaps between front teeth. We apply composite resin to the sides of adjacent teeth, gradually narrowing the gap to your desired appearance. This is quick, affordable, and looks natural. For larger gaps or gaps involving multiple teeth, orthodontics (like Invisalign) or veneers might provide better results. During your consultation, we'll assess your specific gap and recommend the best approach.

Can I whiten bonded teeth?

Professional teeth whitening will lighten your natural teeth but won't affect the color of existing bonding. If you whiten your teeth after bonding is in place, the bonding may appear darker than your newly whitened natural teeth. For best results, we recommend whitening natural teeth first, then matching bonding color to your desired shade. If existing bonding becomes mismatched after whitening, it can be easily recolored or replaced.

How do I care for bonded teeth?

Care for bonded teeth like natural teeth: brush twice daily with soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily, and visit us for regular cleanings every 6 months. Treat bonded teeth gently—avoid chewing ice, hard candy, pen caps, or using teeth as tools. These habits can chip or damage bonding and natural teeth. With good oral hygiene and gentle treatment, your bonding will last many years.

Ready to Improve Your Smile Affordably?

Schedule Your Dental Bonding Consultation

Transform small cosmetic imperfections with affordable, same-day dental bonding at Nations Dental Studio. Whether you have a chip, gap, or stain affecting your smile, our Nashville team can address it quickly without the cost or complexity of other cosmetic treatments. Schedule your consultation today and discover how bonding can give you the smile confidence you deserve.

Reviews

We have worked with thousands of amazing patients

Nations Dental Studio has over 448 reviews and a 5.0 rating on Google

★★★★★

"Beautiful office and incredibly friendly staff. Dr. D'Aoust is awesome and never makes you feel rushed. She doesn't suggest anything unnecessary and explains the treatments thoroughly. Highly recommend."

Jody S.
★★★★★

"Today was my first time at Nations Dental Studio and it was far and away the best experience I have ever had at a dental practice. The hygienist was meticulous and made me feel very comfortable throughout. The specialist was just as great, I really felt like they cared about my teeth/ health like nothing I have experienced at other practices. I cannot say enough good things about my entire visit."

Michael B.
★★★★★

"first time coming here today and all of the girls were absolutely AMAZING! 10000/10 recommend"

Mckenzie H.

Contact us

Ready to schedule your appointment?

Nations Dental Studio

Address

4900 Centennial Blvd., Suite 104

Nashville, TN 37209

Directions

Phone

615-933-5800