How Does Composite Bonding Work? Your Common Questions, Answered
Considering getting dental bonding? Our exclusive Nanofill Composite Bonding treatment gives you a straight white smile in just four hours – enquire now to kickstart your journey.
The experts at Yorkshire Dental Suite have answered the most common questions we receive about composite bonding. If your query isn’t addressed below, do not hesitate to reach out. We will be happy to help.
What is composite bonding?
Composite bonding is a cosmetic treatment that disguises the appearance of common dental issues with a tooth-coloured resin. From small gaps between the teeth to discolouration, this incredibly popular procedure gives you a perfect straight white smile in a matter of hours.
What can composite bonding treat?
Renowned for its speedy results, composite bonding provides a cosmetic ‘fix’ without altering the natural tooth, making it a great choice for patients with a dental phobia. The treatment can be used to address gapped teeth, staining, chips, cracks and crookedness.
How does composite bonding work? The process
The treatment itself is carried out in just one appointment. As it is minimally invasive, there’s no drilling or injections required, and a full smile transformation takes less than four hours to complete. The process is simple:
- The tooth is washed.
- The resin is hand applied to the tooth in thin layers.
- A UV light is shone onto the tooth, curing the resin in place.
- The resin is polished and shaped to the desired aesthetic.
- A bite check is carried out.
- After final checks, you will leave the clinic with your new smile.
What aftercare is required with composite bonding?
For the first 48 hours, while the resin sets, we recommend sticking to a soft food diet to avoid accidental chips. Avoid consuming anything that stains during this time too. Then, to enjoy the full lifespan of this treatment, consider incorporating the following into your long-term aftercare.
Composite bonding aftercare tip | Why is it important? |
Maintain a great oral hygiene routine | Prevents gum disease and tooth decay. |
Attend two dental check-ups yearly | Checks for any issues that may affect your bonding or oral health. |
Attend two hygiene appointments yearly | Helps to keep your bonding looking bright and vibrant. |
Do not smoke or vape | Accelerates the rate of discolouration, while causing serious health issues. |
Use a straw | Limits the contact between staining substances and your bonding. |
Wear a mouthguard | Protects your bonding from chipping caused by injury and teeth grinding. |
Do not use your teeth as tools | Prevents accidental chipping. |
How long does composite bonding last?
If you follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist and take great care of your smile, composite bonding can last 5 – 8 years. Do not worry if your bonding chips or breaks off beforehand – the procedure is easily fixed. Simply contact your dentist for a quick repair.
Is composite bonding permanent?
No, composite bonding is not permanent, and may be replaced or removed at any time. This is because the natural structure of tooth is not modified. If you are looking for a more long-term solution to your dental issues, consider alternative treatments such as porcelain veneers.
Am I suitable for composite bonding?
As long as your teeth and gums are in a generally healthy condition, you should be eligible for composite bonding. Your dentist will check that you are eligible during your initial consultation but, as a guide, we ask that the following criteria applies.
- You have no gum disease (hygiene appointments available)
- You have no cavities (fillings available)
- You are over the age of 18
- If your tooth is damaged, at least 3/4 of the tooth is still there
What are the pros and cons of composite bonding?
Like any other dental treatment, there are advantages and disadvantages to take into consideration before booking your consultation. After all, you want to make sure that you are making the right investment.
Pros:
- Same-day transformation
- Pain free, with no drilling or injections required
- Relatively low cost compared to other dental treatments
- Lasts up to eight years (or even longer!) with care
- Addresses a wide range of issues
Cons:
- Susceptible to chipping
- Discolours over time, and cannot be whitened
- Doesn’t last as long as other dental treatments, like porcelain veneers
- Not suitable for severely damaged or misaligned teeth
- Not available on the NHS
How much is composite bonding?
The answer to this depends on the number of teeth being transformed. On average (in the UK) composite bonding costs between £150 and £500 per tooth. It is not available on the NHS as it classed as a cosmetic treatment, meaning you will need to go to a private clinic.
Yorkshire Dental Suite charges £495 per tooth for dental bonding. Our patients typically opt to have composite veneers on their top eight teeth, the teeth that are visible when smiling, which costs approximately £3,960. We offer a wide range of finance options if you wish to spread the cost of the treatment over time.
Does composite bonding stain?
Yes. Another downside? Composite bonding cannot be whitened, as the resin material is non-porous. Extra care needs to be taken to prevent discolouration, for example, smoking and vaping should be avoided at all costs. We also recommend avoiding the following foods groups as much as possible, as they are known to stain.
Pigmented food and drinks | Acidic food and drinks | Sugary food and drinks |
Tea | Vinegar | Chocolate |
Coffee | Cheese | Flavoured yoghurts |
Tomato-based sauces | Tomatoes | Fizzy drinks |
Red wine | Fizzy drinks | Energy drinks |
Berries | Citrus fruits | Cereal |
Conclusion:
Composite bonding can have a significant impact on your self-confidence. If you want a perfect straight white smile (and fast), this treatment could be perfect. Contact us today for more information.