For a quick smile makeover or a simple way to repair small chips or minor damage to your teeth, composite bonding is the ideal treatment. In just a single short appointment, this fast and effective treatment can change the shape, colour, and size of your teeth, and help you achieve the smile you desire. The composite can be built directly on your tooth, making it a comfortable and non-invasive cosmetic procedure.
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Composite bonding, also known as teeth bonding or dental bonding, is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves the application of a tooth-coloured resin material to your teeth. This material is skillfully shaped and polished by our expert dentists, improving the appearance of your teeth, and creating a more harmonious, natural look. It's a versatile technique that can address various dental imperfections.
For any light damage to your front teeth or contouring your bite surfaces on the back teeth, we can use composite bonding to rebuild teeth. Composite is a special dental resin made from a combination of plastic and glass. It can perfectly mimic tooth enamel and we can colour-match it to your tooth colour, so it looks just like your tooth.
Composite can be built directly on your tooth so there is no need to strip away a layer of enamel. Bonding requires a degree of skill to accurately build up the shape of a tooth from scratch and we have restorative dentistry experts who make it appear as if there was no damage in the first place.
Why have composite bonding?
Natural-looking results: Composite resin mimics the natural colour and translucency of your teeth, delivering aesthetically pleasing results that blend seamlessly with your smile.
Non-invasive: Unlike some other cosmetic treatments, composite bonding doesn't require the removal of healthy tooth structure. It's a conservative approach that preserves your natural teeth.
Quick and convenient: In most cases, composite bonding teeth can be completed in a single appointment, saving you time, and reducing the need for multiple visits to the dentist.
Versatile: Composite bonding can be used to address a wide range of dental issues, including chipped teeth, gaps, discoloration, and misshapen teeth.
Minimal discomfort: Patients typically experience little to no discomfort during the procedure, and there's no downtime for recovery.
Cost-effective: Compared to other cosmetic dental treatments, composite bonding is an affordable option for improving your smile.
Disadvantages of composite bonding:Durability: While teeth bonding is durable, it may not be as long-lasting as options like porcelain veneers. Over time, the material can stain or chip, requiring maintenance or replacement.
Staining: Composite resin is susceptible to staining from certain foods and beverages, as well as smoking. To maintain a bright, uniform smile, you may need to avoid or limit these staining agents.
Repairable, not reversible: While composite bonding is not a permanent alteration to your teeth, removing the resin is not a reversible process. This means that maintenance or replacement may be necessary over time.
Artistry required: Achieving the best results with composite bonding depends on the skill and artistry of your dentist. Choosing an experienced practitioner is crucial and that’s where we come in!
At your initial consultation, we ensure you are in good oral health and suitable for treatment. We ask you about your ideal results and give you the chance to ask us any questions. We also make a note of the shade of your natural teeth or your ideal new shade, so the composite can be colour-matched.
Your dental bonding treatment happens in one short appointment. We first dry the tooth and prepare the surface with a special acidic gel. This creates a rough surface for the composite to properly bond to.
We apply the composite material in layers, gradually building up the accurate shape of your tooth. Using a blue light, we harden the composite, which sets immediately. We then polish the composite, so it looks shiny, healthy, and just like a natural tooth.
Find out more about bonding
Composite is invulnerable to bacteria and decay, but the natural tooth underneath isn’t. Great oral hygiene at home will keep your tooth lasting for as long as possible.
You may require maintenance on these restorations, particularly if you like to drink tea or coffee or enjoy other food and drinks that stain your teeth. This can easily be monitored at your regular check-ups.
The cost of composite bonding per tooth can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the dentist’s expertise, geographic location, and the extent of bonding required. On average, composite bonding can range from approximately £250-£350 per tooth. It’s essential to consult with us for an accurate cost estimate based on your specific needs and circumstances.
The duration of composite bonding treatment depends on the number of teeth being bonded and the complexity of the case. In general, bonding one tooth typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes. However, for multiple teeth or more extensive bonding procedures, the appointment may last longer. We will assess your individual situation and provide a more precise timeframe during your consultation.
Yes, composite bonding can be performed on just two teeth if they require cosmetic improvement or restoration. Whether you want to address chipped, cracked, discoloured, or misshapen teeth, composite bonding offers a versatile solution to enhance the appearance of individual teeth or a select few within your smile. We will evaluate your teeth and discuss treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
In many cases, composite bonding can be completed in a single dental appointment. The process typically involves preparing the teeth, applying the composite resin material, shaping, and sculpting it to achieve the desired appearance, and then curing it with a special light to harden the bonding. With advancements in dental technology and techniques, many dentists can perform composite bonding efficiently and effectively within a single session, providing immediate results.
Composite bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that is generally well-tolerated by most patients. Unlike more extensive dental procedures, such as dental implants or root canals, composite bonding typically requires little to no anaesthesia. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity during the bonding process, especially if tooth preparation is necessary. However, any discomfort is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Overall, most individuals find composite bonding to be a relatively painless and comfortable procedure.
Composite bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves applying a tooth-coloured resin material to the teeth to improve their appearance. While composite bonding can enhance the shape, size, and colour of teeth, it is considered a semi-permanent solution. Over time, the bonding material may wear down or become discoloured, requiring touch-up or replacement. However, if desired, composite bonding can be reversed, and the teeth restored to their original state by a dental professional.
01273 452 947
info@shorehamdentist.co.uk
The Dental Practice
Mariner Point,
81 Brighton Road,
Shoreham-by-Sea,
West Sussex,
BN43 6DG
Areas we serve: Shoreham, Worthing, Steyning and surrounding areas
We are wheelchair accessible and have car parking spaces on site.
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