Cost of Composite Bonding

Introduction

One of the first questions many people ask before cosmetic dentistry is: How much will it cost? Composite bonding is a relatively affordable way to enhance your smile, but pricing can vary depending on your individual needs. Below is a guide to help you understand what factors affect cost, typical price ranges, and what you should ask when getting a quote.

What Affects the Cost?

The final cost of composite bonding depends on several variables:

Number of teeth treated: More teeth means more material, time, and effort.
Extent of correction: Small chips or edge repairs cost less; large reshaping, gap closure or full tooth build-ups cost more.
Complexity of the case: Issues like significant asymmetry, misalignment, or old resin removal add difficulty.
Skill and experience of the dentist: Highly experienced cosmetic dentists often charge more for the precision and artistry they bring.
Material quality & shade matching: Premium composites, multi-shade layering, or advanced aesthetic techniques increase cost.
Location and clinic overhead: Practices in central London or prime areas tend to have higher fees.
Follow-up or adjustment allowance: Whether the quote includes touch-ups or polishing can influence pricing.

When you receive a quote, check whether all steps (consultation, preparation, bonding, finishing, follow-up) are included, or whether some are extra.

Typical Price Ranges in the UK (Indicative Only)

Below are approximate ranges based on current UK practices. These are not quotes — your individual estimate may differ.

Treatment Type	Typical Cost / Tooth*	Notes
Minor repair / edge bonding	Starting at £200	Ideal for chips, small cracks, or smoothing edges
Moderate aesthetic enhancement	Starting at £300	For shape changes, small gaps, layering effects
Advanced or full build-up	Starting at £400	For comprehensive redesign or multiple teeth at once

* These are per-tooth figures. Multi-tooth cases often benefit from economies of scale.

For example:

Four teeth might cost between £900 and £1,195 in certain London practices.
Six teeth might fall in the £1,495 to £1,695 range.
Some practices advertise offers from £195 per tooth in promotional settings.

Examples & Case Comparisons

A dentist offering composite bonding in Harley Street lists a promotional price of £275 per tooth.
A south-London practice advertises a standard range starting at £235-£300 per tooth, with “enhanced” bonding reaching £330-£380.
Some clinics list very wide "from £195–£595 per tooth" ranges to reflect simple to complex cases.

These examples show that variation is common. Always ask for a breakdown of cost components.

What Should Be Included in the Price?

A good comprehensive quote typically includes:

Initial consultation and smile assessment
Preparation (cleaning, old composite removal if needed)
Shade matching and layering of composite
Sculpting, finishing, polishing
Any adjustment or minor touch-up within a defined period
Follow-up review to check settling

If your quote omits any of these steps, clarify whether they will be charged extra.

Why Some Quotes Look “Too Cheap”

Sometimes very low prices indicate:

Use of lower-grade materials or basic composite
Overlooked steps (e.g. no touch-up, minimal finishing)
Less experienced providers or “quick fixes”
Hidden costs added later

It's better to balance cost with quality, longevity, and the skill of the dentist. A more polished, durable result may avoid frequent repairs and additional costs later.

Longevity & Value Consideration

Composite bonding is not permanent, but durable with proper care. Many patients expect 5 to 8 years of aesthetic performance. When assessing cost, consider:

Potential future repair or repolishing costs
The cost of replacing bonding versus doing it well the first time
Long-term value tied to aesthetic satisfaction and functional integrity

A more premium, better-executed bonding may cost more initially but provide better long-term value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will my cost change after assessment?

Yes — your final quote may vary after clinical assessment, once the dentist inspects tooth structure, oral health, and any underlying issues.
Are multiple tooth treatments discounted?

Often yes. Many clinics reduce per-tooth cost when bonding several teeth in one session.
Is there finance available?

Many cosmetic dental practices offer 0% finance or monthly payment plans to spread cost. Ask whether that's available.
Does insurance or NHS cover it?

Typically no, composite bonding is considered cosmetic in most contexts and is not covered by NHS.
Can I get a free quote based on photos?

Some practices accept photos to give an estimated cost before full assessment — but always confirm the final in-person quote.