Cosmetic Bonding in Bucktown & Wicker Park, Chicago

What Is Cosmetic Bonding?

Cosmetic bonding—also called dental bonding or cosmetic dental bonding—uses a tooth-colored resin to repair chips, close small gaps, mask discoloration, and refine the shape of teeth. The material is sculpted directly on your enamel, then light-cured and polished for a seamless, natural look. At Bucktown Wicker Park Dental in Chicago, Dr. Chanbo Sim, DDS, and Dr. Johnson, DDS, provide precise bonding results tailored to your smile goals.

What Cosmetic Bonding Can Fix

• Small chips, hairline cracks, and worn edges
• Minor gaps or black triangles between teeth
• Stains that do not fully respond to professional teeth whitening
• Short, uneven, or slightly misshapen teeth
• Exposed root surfaces along the gumline

For more dramatic smile makeovers, we may discuss pairing cosmetic bonding with veneers or alignment options like CandidPro Clear Aligners within our broader cosmetic dentistry offerings.

How Cosmetic Dental Bonding Works

1. Shade match and prep: We select a resin shade that blends with your enamel. Teeth are gently conditioned for optimal bonding.
2. Layer and sculpt: Composite resin is applied in layers and artistically shaped to refine contours and edges.
3. Light cure: A curing light hardens the material within seconds.
4. Polish and refine: Final shaping and polishing create a smooth, glossy finish that matches neighboring teeth.

Most cosmetic bonding treatments take about one visit per tooth and require little to no anesthesia. If you’re anxious about treatment, we offer options to help you relax in our calm, high-tech space, including sedation dentistry.

How Long Bonding Lasts and How to Care for It

With proper care, cosmetic bonding typically lasts 5–10 years.

• Schedule routine dental cleanings and exams
• Avoid chewing ice, biting nails, or using teeth to open packages
• Limit dark foods and beverages in the first 48 hours
• If you grind your teeth, consider a custom night guard

For stain-prevention tips, explore our blog: How to Keep Your Smile Bright After Teeth Whitening.

Cosmetic Bonding vs. Veneers vs. Crowns

• Cosmetic Bonding: Minimally invasive, single-visit, budget-friendly. Ideal for small chips, gaps, and localized discoloration.
• Veneers: Porcelain shells for more dramatic, long-lasting transformations.
• Crowns: Full-coverage restorations for damaged or weakened teeth.

If a tooth is missing, we may recommend dental implants, dentures & partials, or All-on-Fours.

Why Bucktown Wicker Park Dental?

• Independent neighborhood practice serving Bucktown and Wicker Park in Chicago, IL
• Patient-centered care focused on comfort, communication, and education
• Dr. Chanbo Sim, DDS, known for helping anxious patients feel at ease
• Cozy, high-tech environment with flexible scheduling for busy patients
• In-house preventive care plans for patients without insurance
• Insurance accepted: Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, Lincoln Financial Group, MetLife, Principal Financial Group. For coverage questions, visit Patient Info.
• See what neighbors are saying: Patient Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmetic Bonding

How long does cosmetic bonding last?
With good care, bonding can last 5–10 years. Regular checkups and avoiding habits like chewing ice extend its lifespan.

Is cosmetic bonding painful?
No. Most patients do not need anesthesia, and the procedure is quick and comfortable.

Can cosmetic bonding stain?
Yes, composite resin may stain over time. Avoiding coffee, red wine, and smoking helps maintain brightness.

Is cosmetic bonding right for me?
Bonding is ideal for minor cosmetic concerns. For larger restorations, options like veneers or crowns may be better suited.