Composite Bonding Ruined My Teeth – What Now?
Composite bonding is a quick, minimally-invasive solution to common smile problems, including chips and discolouration. Book a consultation with Yorkshire Dental Suite today.
It’s always disappointing to hear when a patient is unhappy with their composite bonding. Whether it’s due to unrealistic expectations, the final smile reveal or concerns about the condition of their natural teeth, it’s understandable that some patients feel frustrated or regret their decision.
In this blog, we’ll explore why some people are unhappy with their composite bonding, what might be causing these concerns and, most importantly, the dental treatments available to help restore confidence in your smile once more.
Why composite bonding can feel like it ruined your teeth
Composite bonding ruined my teeth. This is a concern we’ve heard from patients who have visited Yorkshire Dental Suite seeking to improve or correct composite bonding carried out elsewhere. When asked why they are unhappy, these are the common complaints we hear:
- My bonding feels rough and bulky
- My bite has changed
- There’s decay trapped beneath my bonding
- I feel like I’m constantly at the dentist to fix chips and cracks
- I can’t keep my teeth white
My bonding feels rough and bulky
If too much resin is applied to the tooth (and not filed down enough by your dentist), it can make the bonding feel bulky and rough. This improper application is able to irritate the gums and cause the patient lasting discomfort.
My bite has changed
Another result of improper application, overly-thick bonding may alter how your teeth meet when biting and chewing. Something else to note is that, if you had pre-existing alignment issues such as an overbite or underbite, bonding could visibly accentuate these problems.
There’s decay trapped beneath my bonding
It is possible for decay to develop beneath composite bonding. The resin itself is immune to cavities, but your natural tooth is still susceptible to decay, especially if you have a poor oral hygiene routine or the bonding seal has gradually weakened over time.
I feel like I’m constantly at the dentist to fix chips and cracks
Composite bonding is not indestructible, meaning it may become damaged as a result of patient habits or natural resin deterioration. This means you will need to return to your clinic if the resin chips or cracks, a commitment many often forget about.
I can’t keep my teeth white
Pigmented food and drinks, like tea, coffee, red wine and berries, will discolour your bonding, alongside habits such as smoking. The downside? Composite resin cannot be whitened so you will need to return to the practice to have your smile freshened up, a trip which often causes frustration.
The truthful pros and cons of composite bonding
Some patients are unhappy with their composite bonding because the treatment did not meet their expectations. Many practices will show only the glamorous before and after pictures on social media, rather than discussing the honest pros and cons.
Here at Yorkshire Dental Suite, we believe in complete transparency to make sure you are making the best decision for your smile. To give you a clear idea as to what you are committing to with this treatment, here are its main advantages and disadvantages.
Pros | Cons |
Extremely versatile, addresses multiple issues | Susceptible to chips and cracks |
Minimally invasive – no modification of the tooth required | Discolours over time, cannot be whitened |
Low cost compared to other cosmetic procedures, like porcelain veneers | Not suitable for severely misaligned or missing teeth |
Lasts 5 – 8+ years if well cared for by the patient | Temporary adjustment period as you get used to the new shape and feel |
Smile transformation in just one appointment | Not as durable as other cosmetic procedures, like porcelain veneers |
What to do if you don’t like your composite bonding
One of the biggest benefits of composite bonding is that it’s easy to replace or remove. Therefore, if you are unhappy with the look of your smile, you have many possible treatment options.
Before you even begin to think about alternative procedures, the first step is always discussing your concerns with your dentist. They will listen to your concerns and be able to recommend next steps, whether that’s trying dental bonding again or suggesting another treatment altogether.
We have listed the common reasons our patients get composite bonding and suitable alternatives. The most suitable option will depend on which issue you want to fix and the condition of your teeth.
- Chips: Filling, dental crown, root canal
- Cracks: Dental crown, root canal
- Small gaps: Orthodontics
- Misaligned teeth: Orthodontics
- Discolouration and stains: Teeth whitening, porcelain veneers
Can I fix composite bonding myself?
If you are unhappy with your new smile, do not attempt to fix it yourself at home. Avoid any DIY tools like teeth files or household glues as these can damage your teeth and cause serious health complications. Contact your dentist for assistance – they will safely be able to fix whatever you don’t like about your smile.
Conclusion:
Unhappy with your composite bonding? Book a consultation with Yorkshire Dental Suite. Our friendly, highly-experienced cosmetic dentists are on hand to give you back a smile you’re proud to show off.