Composite bonding is a common term which we often come across – almost every day in our life. Whether on social media platforms or when you go out for dinner or at a dentist’s clinic, Invisalign and composite bonding are probably the two most common topics which are often discussed about.
There are hundreds and thousands of people worldwide who are unhappy with their smile and are looking forward to cosmetic options. Composite bonding is a painless, non-invasive dental procedure which does not require anaesthesia and is suitable for all age groups. Dental bonding helps restore the confidence in your smile just within a short appointment. Have a look at this blog to find out everything you should know about composite dental bonding.
Understanding Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is a popular contemporary technique which improves the appearance of your teeth. Composite refers to the tooth coloured filling material which is meticulously sculpted and bonded to your teeth, enhancing the look of your smile. Note that this process does not involve any tooth removal.
This technique is often used as a restorative procedure to repair your broken teeth, or change their position, colour and shape. It suggests that composite bonding can create a whiter, brighter, straighter, and more even smile for you. This procedure is often used along with other treatments, as a part of smile makeover. A short dental appointment can create a significant difference in your smile.
Is composite bonding painful?
As composite bonding does not involve any tooth removal, it is therefore neither invasive nor does it require any kind of anaesthesia. Adding the composite filling material to your teeth is completely pain-free in this procedure.
If you have tooth sensitivity, you may usually prefer to have your teeth numbed before the treatment. Some patients often fear this sensitivity as the air and water used in this process is quite cold and further trigger their sensitivity.
Does composite bonding damage your teeth?
Composite bonding is a minimal dental treatment which does not involve any damage to your teeth in course of the procedure. While older filling materials were used earlier, dentists would often require to remove some healthy parts of the teeth to ensure the proper adherence of the fillings to your tooth surface. But with composite bonding material, this is not the case.
As the composite filling gets bonded to your teeth, it helps preserve the existing tooth structure and strengthen it further. Moreover, composite is an excellent material which can be changed, removed, or repaired any time after it is placed on your teeth.
Can composite bonding close teeth gaps?
Composite dental bonding might be used to close gaps between your teeth in some cases. For instance, a patient might have narrow front teeth with spaces between them, and want them to be filled. The composite material can be added in such case to close the spaces between the teeth and enhance the overall shape as well.
However, correcting the tooth alignment with Invisalign or using a dental implant can help close gaps between teeth in most cases. It is better to consult the dentist about which treatment option is suitable for your individual condition.
How can I know if composite bonding is the right solution for me?
During the consultation, the dentist will examine your condition, address your concerns, and help determine if composite bonding is the right treatment for your oral problems.
First, the dentist will perform a comprehensive clinical assessment; run a digital intra-oral scan of your mouth, and an aspirational smile analysis. This helps both you and the dentist visualise the interior condition of your mouth, also give a preview of what your final smile will look like after the composite bonding treatment. Your dentist will then decide on how the final result will look on your face, and will also make necessary adjustments so that the smile sets properly on your face.
From every information gathered during the consultation, the dentist creates a digital smile design personalised for you before beginning with the composite bonding treatment. As you will already have an idea of what your final result will look like, you can remain confident about your new smile after the treatment.
Am I fit for composite bonding?
Composite bonding is usually suitable for all individuals. It is a safe procedure which can be performed on patients of all age groups. It is, therefore, crucial to practise an excellent oral hygiene routine, and the dental team can guide you on that.
Composite Bonding vs. Dental Veneers: Which one is better?
Although composite bonding is a very different treatment from dental veneers, they often use to resolve similar dental problems and oral health issues.
- While dental bonding is a non-invasive procedure without involving any tooth removal, porcelain veneers often need the removal of tooth in some cases.
- The composite bonding procedure requires just a single appointment, while treatment with dental veneers usually needs a couple of dental visits.
- While porcelain veneers are quite expensive, composite bonding is relatively a cheaper option.
- Treatment with composite bonding requires rejuvenating after 5 to 7 years of the treatment, while dental veneers typically last longer – at least up to 15 years.
- If proper care is not taken of following your composite bonding treatment, it might cause your teeth to get chipped or discoloured. On the other hand, porcelain veneers are a safer option as they make your teeth more resistant to damage.
The right way to find out which treatment option is best for your dental condition is by consulting your dentist and discussing how your final results will look like.
Composite Bonding Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here is a stepwise approach on how the composite bonding treatment is performed:
- At first, the dentist cleans your teeth.
- Next, a dental adhesive is applied on your teeth.
- The dentist will then carefully apply small quantities of the composite material on the adhesive, adding a new artistic look to your smile.
- A blue light is then used to harden the composite material, and ensure if it is properly bonded to your tooth surface.
- Finally, the dentist will polish the bonded composite material to give it the right shape and shine you have always desired for.
How long does the composite bonding treatment take to complete?
The duration of the composite bonding treatment depends on the number of your teeth which require bonding, and also on the severity of the procedure. As the entire treatment can be completed in just a single appointment, you can leave the appointment with a new smile. Moreover, during your initial consultation the dentist will let you know about how long your treatment will require before beginning with the procedure.
Can I get composite bonding if I have already got Invisalign before?
After you achieve straighter teeth with Invisalign, composite bonding can often help in edge bonding or recontouring. While Invisalign works by improving the position of teeth, composite bonding is used at the end of the Invisalign treatment to refine the tooth shape and also smooth out any rough edges.
Before you begin with your Invisalign treatment, the dentist will definitely discuss if recontouring with composite is necessary for your condition. This helps planning your budget accordingly, without any hidden surprises with the treatment costs.
When should I get teeth whitening – before or after composite bonding?
Patients who seek composite bonding are mostly interested in brightening up their smiles as well with teeth whitening treatments. The composite material is unable to make your teeth whiter in the same way as that of your natural teeth, so it is always recommended to get teeth whitening before the composite bonding treatment. This makes it easy for the dentist to match the cosmetic dental bonding to your whitened teeth. It guarantees the best results.
How long does composite bonding last?
The longevity of your composite dental bonding depends on your oral hygiene and other lifestyle factors like dietary habits or smoking. Going for regular dental visits is essential for keeping track of your oral health through time to time dental health checks and hygiene appointments. It helps maintaining your composite bonding in good condition.
However, composite bonding usually requires a certain level of rejuvenation around 5 to 7 years after getting the treatment. It is a simple procedure where the composite material is polished and repaired quite easily.
Cost of Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is one the most affordable treatments in the field of cosmetic dentistry. The composite bonding costs are based on the number of teeth involved in this treatment and the intricacy of the process as well. However, the average costs of composite bonding range around £300 and £450 in the UK. You will get the chance to discuss the estimate of overall costs for the dental bonding treatment as well as the payment options.
Final Thoughts
Composite bonding is an outstanding option if you are seeking a simple and straightforward solution to achieve a quick, perfect smile. In fact, dental bonding is the least invasive and most affordable method in the world of cosmetic dentistry.
Composite bonding is usually a safe and suitable solution for most people and you can notice remarkable results within just a single appointment. You can contact MD.co.uk at 020 7183 2362 to book your appointment if you are looking forward to get cosmetic dental bonding in London.
