What You Need To Know About Composite Bonding
If you’re in need of a quick, minimally invasive and highly effective way of transforming the appearance of your smile, composite bonding should be at the top of your treatment list. Many patients who come to us with chips, cracks or misshapen teeth don’t know much about this method and its various benefits, so we wanted to answer some of our most frequently asked questions in this blog. Stick around to learn more!
What Is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding, sometimes called ‘composite tooth bonding’, is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves applying a tooth-coloured composite resin material to the teeth to enhance their appearance. It can be used to repair chipped, cracked, or discoloured teeth, fill in gaps between teeth, reshape teeth, and even improve the overall alignment of the smile.
How does composite bonding work?
At 41 South Bar, our experienced dentists will carry out the following steps to complete your composite bonding:
- We will first analyse the shades of the affected teeth and match the resin to this colour for a smooth, natural-looking transition.
- To avoid any post-procedure infection, we will conduct a dental hygiene treatment, in which we will thoroughly clean your teeth.
- Depending on the severity of your teeth, we might need to remove any decayed or rotten areas.
- After your teeth have been properly cleaned, we will prepare the bonded area of your tooth. A 30% phosphoric acid tooth conditioner will then be applied, as this removes the smooth surface to allow the resin to form.
- We will then place the composite resin directly onto the prepared surface and mould it into the desired shape.
- Once applied, the resin will be hardened using a UV light.
- Finally, your dentist might need to trim, polish, shape or layer the composite to ensure a perfect final appearance.
If you have any further questions about the procedure itself, please feel free to ask our dental team prior to your consultation. You can find some recent examples of our work in our case studies section too.
What Are The Benefits Of Composite Bonding?
It’s no surprise composite bonding has become one of the most popular ways of improving the appearance of teeth, as it comes with several benefits:
- Natural appearance: The composite resin used in bonding is carefully matched to the colour of your natural teeth, providing a seamless result.
- Minimally invasive: Unlike some other dental procedures, composite bonding typically requires minimal alteration to the natural tooth structure.
- Quick and painless: Composite bonding is a relatively quick and painless procedure that can often be completed in just one visit to the dentist.
- Versatility: It can address a wide range of cosmetic dental concerns, making it a versatile option for smile enhancement.
Are Composite Bonding And Veneers The Same?
While both composite bonding and veneers can improve the appearance of your teeth, they are not the same. Veneers are thin shells typically made of porcelain that are custom-made and permanently bonded to the front surface of the teeth. Composite bonding, on the other hand, involves applying a tooth-coloured resin directly to the teeth and shaping it to achieve the desired look.
Generally, composite bonding costs a lot less than veneers and is used to fix more minor issues, such as chips or gaps. Whilst porcelain veneers are generally more durable, composite bonds have a long lifespan when well looked after and are much easier to fix should damage occur.
Both treatments have their merits, so it ultimately depends on what you need to fix and your budget when deciding which to opt for.
Can Composite Bonding Be Whitened?
Teeth whitening procedures that use hydrogen peroxide will typically not change the colour of the resin material but will change the colour of your natural tooth. This means that the composite resin might start to look darker or more yellow than the rest of the tooth and will stand out a lot more. This is why people who have been considering whitening their teeth will often have it done before their composite bonding treatment.
There are ways to get around it; for example, if you’re prepared to upgrade the existing bonding. If it’s something you’re interested in, get in touch with us today and we’d be happy to discuss your options.
How Long Can Composite Bonding Last?
The longevity of composite bonding can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene practices, diet, and habits like teeth grinding. On average, composite bonding can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper care and maintenance.
Will Composite Bonding Protect Teeth?
While composite bonding can improve the appearance of teeth and provide some protection against further damage, it is not as durable as other restorative materials like porcelain or metal. Therefore, it’s essential to avoid habits that could potentially damage the bonded teeth, such as biting on hard objects or using teeth as tools.
How Much Is Composite Bonding?
The cost of composite bonding can vary depending on factors such as the extent of the treatment and the number of teeth involved. At 41 South Bar, our composite bonding treatments start at around £168, but we’d be happy to provide you with a personalised quote during your consultation.
You can find a breakdown of different dental treatment costs on our website.
Is Composite Bonding Suitable For Me?
Composite bonding is suitable for many patients looking to improve the appearance of their smiles. However, it’s essential to consult with your dentist to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. Those with the following issues might benefit from this treatment in particular:
- Spotted or discoloured teeth
- Decaying teeth
- Large gaps or spacing between teeth
- Exposed roots or receding gum lines
- Cosmetic issues
- Chipped, broken or cracked teeth
- Mismatched teeth lengths
- Alternative to black or metallic fillings
How Soon After Composite Bonding Can I Eat?
While composite bonding is cured and hardened during the procedure, you should avoid eating hard or sticky foods immediately afterwards to prevent damage to the bonded teeth. We also discourage drinking coffee, tea and smoking soon after your treatment, to avoid any stains. Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions on when it’s safe to resume your normal eating habits.
Choose 41 South Bar For Your Composite Bonding Today
When it comes to enhancing your smile with composite bonding, choosing a reliable private dentist like 41 South Bar can make all the difference. Our experienced team of dental professionals is dedicated to providing high-quality care in a comfortable and welcoming environment. With our personalised approach to treatment, new technology, and commitment to excellence, you can trust us to help you achieve the smile of your dreams. Ready to transform your smile with composite bonding? Schedule your consultation with 41 South Bar today.
We are always welcoming new patients to our Banbury dentist, so get in touch if you’d like to book your first appointment with us.