Reviewed By Dr. Jodi Kuhn
Reading time: 3 minutes
Minor chips, uneven edges, and small cosmetic tooth concerns are common in children. Dental bonding is a conservative cosmetic treatment that allows dentists to repair these issues quickly while preserving natural tooth structure.
We provide dental care for the whole family at our offices in Denver, Aurora, Thornton, and Hampden. We proudly accept Medicaid and make quality dental care accessible for every child.
| Dental and Vision Care in One Convenient Location At our Denver and Aurora locations, Youth Dentistry & Orthodontics and Youth Vision are conveniently located in the same building. This means your child can receive both dental and vision care at one familiar location, without extra travel or scheduling stress. |
Table of Contents
What Is Dental Bonding and When Is It Used for Kids?
Dental bonding is a restorative dental treatment that uses a tooth-colored resin to repair minor damage or improve the shape of a child’s tooth. Dentists commonly use bonding to fix small chips, smooth rough edges, close minor gaps, or improve appearance when the tooth is otherwise healthy.
What Dental Bonding Can Fix
Bonding works best for small to moderate cosmetic or structural issues on both baby teeth and permanent teeth. Your dentist will evaluate the condition of the tooth and whether enough healthy structure is present to support the bonding material.
Bonding can help with:
- Chipped or slightly cracked teeth
- Worn edges from grinding or other habits
- Small gaps between teeth
- Mild shape or contour concerns
- Discolored teeth that do not respond to whitening
Bonding is not appropriate for teeth with extensive damage, large cavities, or areas that need added strength for long-term durability.
When Bonding May Not Be The Best Option
Bonding is effective for small repairs, but it does not provide the strength or coverage needed in every situation. A different treatment may be recommended when a tooth requires added durability or long-term protection.
Another option may be recommended if your child has:
- A large cavity or extensive tooth damage
- Heavy chewing forces on back teeth
- Repeated breakage in the same area
- A tooth that requires full coverage for strength
In these cases, a dental crown may offer better protection and longer-lasting results.
Supporting Confident, Healthy Smiles
Dental bonding is one of several options used to manage minor tooth concerns in children. The most appropriate treatment depends on the location of the tooth, the extent of damage, and how much strength or coverage is needed as your child’s mouth continues to develop.
If you have questions about whether dental bonding is appropriate for your child, a dental evaluation can help determine the best next step based on their specific needs.
Contact Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics to schedule an appointment at any of our locations.
📍Denver Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 1400 Grove Street, Denver, CO 80204 | (303) 825-2295
📍Aurora Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 14251 E. 6th Avenue, Aurora, CO 80011 | (303) 343-3133
📍Thornton Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 550 E. Thornton Parkway, Suite 240A, Thornton, CO 80229 | (303) 280-8878
📍Hampden Youth Dentistry and Orthodontics: 7400 East Hampden Ave. Unit C1, Denver, CO 80231 | (720) 826-3694
FAQ
How long does dental bonding last?
Dental bonding can last several years, but longevity depends on the location of the bonded tooth, biting forces, and oral habits. Regular dental visits help monitor wear and determine when repairs or replacement may be needed.
Can you eat normally with bonded teeth?
Children can eat normally after bonding, but very hard or sticky foods may increase the risk of chipping. Good oral hygiene and routine checkups help maintain the bonded area.
How much does dental bonding cost?
The cost of dental bonding varies based on the extent of repair and the number of teeth involved. A dental exam is needed to provide an accurate estimate and determine insurance coverage.
Does Medicaid cover dental bonding for kids in Colorado?
Medicaid coverage for dental bonding in Colorado depends on the reason for treatment and whether the procedure is considered medically necessary rather than cosmetic.
