Dental bonding is a fast, affordable way to fix minor imperfections like chips, cracks, small gaps, and discolouration. But one of the most common questions patients ask is: “Is dental bonding covered by insurance?”
The answer? It depends. Whether your dental plan covers bonding typically comes down to why you’re getting it done — and how your insurance provider classifies the procedure.
Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision before your next appointment.
🧠 First: What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin is applied to your tooth, shaped, hardened with a curing light, and polished to match the surrounding enamel.
It’s used for both restorative and cosmetic purposes, including:
- Repairing chipped or cracked teeth
- Closing small gaps
- Improving tooth shape
- Covering deep stains
- Protecting exposed tooth roots due to gum recession
- Filling small cavities
Depending on the reason for treatment, bonding may fall into two insurance categories:
- ✅ Restorative or
- ❌ Cosmetic.
💳 When Insurance Typically Covers Dental Bonding
Most dental insurance plans in Canada will cover bonding when it is deemed medically necessary — meaning it restores a tooth’s health or function.
Examples include:
- Repairing a fractured tooth caused by trauma
- Filling a cavity using composite resin
- Restoring a chipped tooth that affects your bite
- Protecting an exposed root surface that is causing sensitivity
- Replacing old or failing composite fillings
In these cases, bonding may be billed under basic restorative services, which are commonly covered up to 70–100%, depending on your plan.
💰 When Insurance May Not Cover Bonding
If bonding is done purely for cosmetic reasons, it may not be eligible for coverage. This includes procedures like:
- Closing small gaps for aesthetic purposes
- Masking internal tooth stains or discolouration
- Changing the size or shape of a tooth for visual improvement
- Touch-ups to improve smile symmetry
In these cases, the bonding is considered elective — and you may be responsible for the full cost.
📝 Every Plan Is Different
Dental insurance plans vary greatly depending on:
- Your provider (e.g., Sun Life, Canada Life, Manulife, etc.)
- Whether your plan is private or employer-sponsored
- Your annual maximum and coverage percentages
- Your plan’s definition of “necessary” treatment
🦷 Tip: Before booking your bonding appointment, we recommend contacting your insurance provider with your treatment code and asking:
- “Is bonding covered under basic restorative services?”
- “Is this procedure considered cosmetic or medically necessary?”
- “What percentage is reimbursed?”
- “Is pre-approval or a treatment estimate required?”
Your dental clinic can help submit a pre-determination request to get confirmation from your insurance provider before treatment.
💡 Alternatives If Bonding Isn’t Covered
If bonding isn’t covered and cost is a concern, talk to your dental team about:
- Payment plans or financing options
- Other conservative treatments that may be covered
- Whether you can break treatment into phases across calendar years to maximize insurance benefits
Final Thoughts
Dental bonding is a versatile treatment with both cosmetic and functional benefits. Whether or not it’s covered by your dental insurance depends on why you’re getting it done — and how your plan classifies it.
Still unsure? [Book a consultation with us today] — we can assess your needs, walk you through the insurance process, and help you get the most out of your coverage.