If improving your smile is something you’re considering, then one of the terms that may well have been mentioned is composite bonding. This non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment has gained popularity because it is inexpensive, results are immediate, and it looks natural. But what exactly is composite bonding, and is it for you? Here’s a breakdown by a London dentist into the essentials.
What is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding, also known as dental bonding, is a cosmetic procedure to help improve the look of teeth. The treatment primarily used for chips, cracks, discoloration, or gaps of the teeth involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to your teeth. The resin will be shaped and polished to fit your natural teeth.
Unlike most invasive treatments, such as veneers or crowns, composite bonding doesn’t require the elimination of a significant portion of the enamel. This also makes it non-invasive and painless to beautify your smile.
How Is Composite Bonding Done?
Initial Consultation Your dentist will start by consulting you about your intended outcome and then analysing your teeth to see if you are a good candidate for composite bonding.
Colours Matching: The composite bonding resin is available in a variety of shades. Your dentist will perfectly match the resin with the colour of your natural tooth.
Preparation: No anaesthesia is needed in most cases as it is a painless procedure. It deals with light etching of the surface of the tooth to create a texture to which the resin can stick more effectively.
Application: The dentist applies the composite resin in layers, shaping and moulding it to achieve an appearance that looks right. Between the layers, a special light hardens the resin.
Smoothing/Polishing: After being set, the dentist polishes and smoothes out the composite material to give a natural glow to your tooth.
This can very often be completed all in one visit, though this depends on the number of teeth that are being treated.
What Issues Does Composite Bonding Help Improve?
Composite bonding is flexible and can be used to improve almost any cosmetic concern, including:
Damaged teeth: Smoothing over chips and cracks to reinstate the natural shape of a tooth.
Discoloured teeth: Covering stubborn stains that will not respond to whitening.
Spaces between the teeth: Filling in small gaps, even avoiding the use of braces.
Misshapen teeth: Reshaping teeth to achieve uniformity.
Remember that composite bonding is ideal only for minor cosmetic dentistry corrections. If you have bigger dental problems, you may be better off with other treatments, such as crowns or veneers.
What are the Advantages of Composite Bonding?
Immediate Outcome: Because this can be completed in a single visit, you see an immediate result and improved smile.
Non-Invasive: It involves no drilling or heavy preparation, thus conserving your natural tooth structure.
Affordable: Much more than other cosmetic dental procedures like veneers.
Natural Look and Feel: Considering the treatment has been made by an experienced dentist, the resin merges well with your natural teeth.
Reversible: Unlike veneers, composite bonding does not permanently alter the teeth and can be changed or replaced.
How Long Does Composite Bonding Last?
Composite bonding usually will last a long period, with considerations depending on your oral hygiene, your diet, and how well you look after your teeth. On average, composite bonding can last anywhere between 3 to 10 years before it may need a touch-up or replacement.
To make the bonding last as long as it should, here are some pointers:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing should be done twice a day, daily flossing, and regular visits to the dentist.
- Staining is less likely if staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and red wine are minimised.
- Minimal Wear and Tear: Avoid using teeth as tools; for instance, do not bite into hard things or open packages.
Is Composite Bonding Right for Me?
Composite bonding is really ideal for anyone desiring to improve their smile without going under the knife, as it is quick and not as costly as other means. It is ideal for minor cosmetic problems and can be a very real solution if you are worried about chipped, discoloured, or widely spaced teeth.
However, it may not be suitable for major dental damage or misalignment, and your dentist may be able to provide you with better alternatives such as crowns, orthodontics, or veneers.
How Much Does Composite Bonding Cost in London?
The price of composite bonding can vary based on the complexity of the case and the number of teeth being worked on. You should expect to pay between £150 and £400 per tooth in London. Composite bonding is considered one of the more reasonably priced cosmetic treatments; it’s always best to ask your dentist for an accurate quote.
Composite bonding is a very simple yet effective way to improve your smile. Whether you have a chipped tooth or want to brighten up your smile, this minimally invasive treatment provides immediate and natural results that easily blend in with your own teeth.
If you are considering composite bonding in London, you will want to consult a cosmetic dentist for the best possible result. Composite bonding can last for years with proper care, be stunning in creating just the perfect smile that will enhance your self-confidence.