Cosmetic bonding, also called composite or tooth bonding, uses tooth-coloured material to repair chips, close small gaps and smooth uneven edges. It is done in-house at Brampton Smiles, it is fully reversible, and it removes little or no healthy tooth. For many people it is the simplest first step before considering veneers.
What can bonding fix?
- chipped or worn tooth edges
- small gaps between front teeth
- uneven or short teeth
- minor shape changes
- spots that whitening cannot reach
How bonding works
- Consultation. We look at your teeth, take photos and explain what bonding can and cannot do.
- Shade match. We choose a composite shade that blends with your natural teeth.
- Bonding. The surface is prepared, the composite is placed and sculpted in layers, and each layer is hardened with a light.
- Polish and bite check. We polish the surface to a natural shine and check your bite.
Bonding is usually done in a single visit and often needs no numbing, unless a tooth is also being repaired for decay.
Bonding, veneers or whitening: which is right?
- Whitening changes colour only and removes no tooth. Do it first if you want a brighter smile, because composite does not whiten.
- Bonding repairs and reshapes small areas and is reversible.
- Veneers change colour, shape and alignment across several teeth, but are not fully reversible.
Dr. Abbas will usually suggest the gentlest option that gets you the result you want.
How long does bonding last?
Bonding can last for years with good care, but it can chip or stain sooner than porcelain. Grinding and biting hard objects shorten its life. If you grind, ask about a nightguard. Edges can often be polished or topped up at a quick visit.
Cost and insurance
Cost depends on how many teeth are treated and how much work each needs. Fees follow the Ontario Dental Association fee guide, and you get a written estimate first. Bonding to repair a chip is usually covered by insurance, while bonding done only to change appearance is considered cosmetic and may not be. We run a predetermination so you know in writing. We direct-bill Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, Green Shield and CDCP where applicable, and offer 0% in-house payment plans.
Before Your Visit
- Bring photos of what you want to change.
- If you plan to whiten, do it first so the bonding is matched to your final shade.
- Tell us if you grind your teeth or chew on pens or ice.
- Bring your insurance card.
After Your Treatment
- If you were numbed, wait until it wears off before eating.
- You can usually eat right away, but avoid biting hard foods with the bonded tooth, such as ice, hard candy or nuts, especially in the first days.
- Avoid coffee, tea and red wine for the first 48 hours if you can, since fresh bonding stains more easily.
- Brush twice a day and floss. Avoid very abrasive toothpastes.
- Do not bite your nails or open packages with your teeth.
- Call us if the bonding chips, feels rough or your bite feels off.
Visit Brampton Smiles
50 Sunny Meadow Blvd, Unit 300, Brampton, ON L6R 0Y7, near Bovaird Drive East. Phone: (905) 793-8668.
Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu 10 AM to 7 PM. Tue, Fri 10 AM to 5 PM. Sat 9 AM to 2 PM. Sun closed.
Book your free bonding consultation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does bonding hurt?
Usually not. Many cases need no numbing, since little or no tooth is removed.
How long does bonding take?
Often one visit. We confirm the time at your consultation.
Is bonding reversible?
Yes. Bonding can be removed or redone, which is why it is a good trial before veneers.
Will bonding stain?
Composite can stain over time. Polishing at your hygiene visits helps keep it fresh.
Can you fix a chipped tooth the same day?
Often yes. If you have a chipped or broken tooth with pain, call (905) 793-8668 for a same-day emergency visit.
Is bonding covered by insurance?
Bonding to repair a chip is usually covered. Bonding for appearance only may not be. CDCP does not cover cosmetic procedures.
Is the consultation free?
Yes. Our cosmetic consultation is free and includes a written estimate.