Everything You Need to Know About Composite Bonding
Composite Bonding is a cosmetic treatment that is used to fix the colour and shape of teeth in order to restore them to their original look. Bonding can help to repair chips, fractures, decay, fill gaps and improve discolouration of the teeth. Basically, it is an enhancing tool for the teeth. The way this procedure works is through applying a tooth coloured resin, called composite, onto the teeth. The colour of the resin is matched to that of your teeth. So it will look as if it is a natural part of your teeth.
Composite Bonding Treatments
- Composite bonding is considered a fast and effective way to fix minor cosmetic issues. The treatment is completed all on the same day so you can go back to your normal schedule soon after (the only exception to this would be if you have anaesthesia however this is very unlikely and wouldn’t usually be required as the treatment is not painful).
- The composite that is placed on top of the tooth is hardened using UV light as soon as it is applied, meaning the tooth feels comfortable and it is easy to bite down on it, after the procedure.
- Bonding is also a non-invasive procedure, which means that no tooth tissue is removed. Alternatives such as crowns and veneers require the part of the tooth to be drilled away. However, for composite bonding to be applied, the surface of the tooth only has to be roughened. This is done to help the resin to bond to the tooth. This means the structure of the tooth remains intact. Therefore it is considered a better and healthier alternative, as bonding doesn’t damage or remove any part of the tooth.
How Long Does Composite Bonding Last?
- As long as good oral hygiene is maintained and the teeth are regularly cleaned and checked by a dentist, composite bonding on the teeth should last for years. However, this can vary slightly for each patient. That being said, repolishing is usually applied every couple of years. This is done to ensure the composite does remain intact and that the teeth keep their lustre.
Composite Bonding Solutions
- Composite bonding can be used as a solution for staining in teeth and fillings and can be used to whiten the teeth to achieve a brighter and whiter smile. That being said, many dentists will recommend that any whitening treatments are done first, before having composite bonding. This is because once the resin has been applied, it cannot be whitened further.
- After having composite bonding done on the teeth, there are many things that should be done to ensure that the composite remains strong and doesn’t stain.
- One is avoiding tea, coffee, smoking and food which may stain, for 48 hours after having the procedure.
- Another is brushing the teeth often and seeing the hygienist regularly to maintain good oral health. This will help the composite bonding stay clean and unstained.
- Biting nails or chewing items such as pen lids are considered a no-no as they may chip the material. Composite bonding isn’t as strong as a normal tooth so it’s important to take precautions to avoid damage.
- Lastly, with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, composite bonding should last for years.
Read more about Composite Bonding here.
