Composite Bonding
Composite bonding is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment used to improve the shape, proportion and appearance of teeth using tooth-coloured composite resin. It can repair small chips, close gaps, rebuild worn edges and disguise minor imperfections, often with little or no removal of healthy tooth structure. In many cases, treatment can be completed in a single visit.
What Can It Improve?
Composite can be carefully added to the teeth to make subtle or more noticeable changes to your smile. It may be suitable for:
1. Chipped or worn edges
2. Small gaps between teeth
3. Uneven or irregular tooth shapes
4. Minor differences in tooth length
5. Localised discolouration or surface imperfections
6. Mild cosmetic irregularities in the appearance of the smile
Composite edge bonding focuses mainly on the edges of the teeth, while composite veneers cover more of the front surface when a greater change in shape or appearance is wanted.
What Happens During Composite Bonding?
We first discuss what you would like to change and assess whether composite bonding is the most suitable option. The shade of composite is then selected to blend with your natural teeth.
The tooth surface is prepared conservatively before layers of composite are carefully placed, shaped and hardened with a curing light. The material is then refined and polished so the finished result blends naturally with the surrounding teeth.
If you are also considering teeth whitening, it is usually best to complete this before bonding, as composite does not whiten afterwards.
Looking After Your Results
Composite bonding can remain attractive for many years with good care, although it can gradually stain, wear or chip and may occasionally need polishing, repair or replacement.
Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth and avoid habits such as biting your nails, chewing pens or using your teeth to open things. Tea, coffee, red wine and smoking can also stain composite over time.
One of the advantages of composite is that small areas can often be repaired without having to replace the whole restoration.
