How does composite bonding work?

How does composite bonding work?

Composite bonding, also called dental bonding or cosmetic bonding, is a popular, minimally invasive cosmetic dental treatment. This is one way you can improve your smile effectively and quickly.

It could be that you have minor imperfections you want to fix, or that you just want to improve the appearance of your teeth. With composite bonding by Ringway Dental, you can. So, how does this improve things? We’ll explain everything.

What is composite bonding?

Composite bonding is a non-invasive cosmetic process. Your dentist applies a tooth-coloured resin to the surface of your teeth. The resin is made from a combination of materials. The resin and the way it’s applied mimic the appearance and properties of your natural tooth enamel. The resin’s composition (a blend of plastic with fine glass particles) gives it strength and a natural enamel-like look.

The dentist carefully matches the colour of the resin to your surrounding teeth. This means the result looks natural and blends in. Once shaped, the material is then hardened with a special UV light. It’s then polished to create a smooth and glossy finish.

Unlike with crowns or veneers, your natural teeth remain intact underneath the resin. There’s no injections, drilling or enamel removal. You can typically have the procedure done in a single visit to your dentist. It’s quick and gentle, which makes it popular. You get an improved appearance while keeping your natural teeth healthy and intact.

What issues can composite bonding fix?

Composite bonding is mainly a cosmetic procedure. This means it isn’t suitable for people who want to create major structural issues with their teeth. That said, there are several things it can fix:

• Chipped Teeth

Perhaps you’ve chipped your teeth in an accident, on a hard food or playing sports. Composite bonding is a way of fixing a chipped tooth and solving any potential dental complications of leaving it untreated. A chipped tooth can be repaired in a single visit with composite bonding and it’s quick and painless.

• Gaps Between Teeth

Many people with gaps between their teeth are self-conscious. There are various reasons for gaps, including genetics and tooth loss. Composite bonding can fill in these gaps to create teeth with a more uniform look.

• Tooth Discolouration

Discolouration and stains can make people feel less confident. Teeth whitening treatments are one option but for some, composite bonding is a better alternative. Whiter teeth can be achieved with a custom shade of composite resin. This is applied to the affected tooth or teeth to mask the discolouration. This is useful for teeth with intrinsic stains that won’t respond well to traditional whitening methods.

• Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth are often caused by gum recession or enamel erosion. It can be very painful to deal with and it makes drinking and eating cold or hot foods unpleasant. A layer of composite bonding applied by a dentist can improve sensitivity. This is because the resin forms a protective layer on the tooth’s surface, shielding the sensitive areas.

• Misshapen Teeth

If you have uneven or misshapen teeth, whether it’s due to wear and tear or otherwise, composite bonding can be used to create a more uniform appearance. Your dentist will sculpt the composite material to match your other teeth to create a natural look.

• Small Cavities

Big cavities need crowns or fillings but small ones can actually be treated using composite bonding. It means you can fix minor decay issues without having to drill extensively. The composite material can be applied to the cavity directly. It restores the tooth’s integrity and preserves the natural tooth structure. It means recovery time is quicker as it’s a less invasive procedure.

• Worn Teeth

If you grind or clench your teeth, they can wear down over time. This in itself can cause other issues like discomfort and misalignment. Composite bonding helps restore your teeth to the right shape and height. Your dentist can use the resin to improve bite function and tooth structure wherever it’s needed.

READ MORE: What can composite bonding treat?

The step-by-step process: how composite bonding works

Composite bonding can often be done in a single sitting with your dentist. There are several steps involved:

1. Initial consultation and colour matching.

Your dentist will discuss your goals and check you’re suitable for composite bonding first. If you are, they’ll choose a shade of resign that matches your natural enamel.

• Tooth preparation.

The surface of your teeth will be roughened slightly. This is so that the resin can bond securely with your teeth. A conditioning liquid will also be applied.

• Resin application and shaping.

The tooth-coloured resin is applied in layers. This is gently moulded to the desired tooth shape so that it matches your tooth’s natural contours.

• Curing.

A special bright blue light (a curing light) is used to harden each layer of resin. This takes seconds. This sets the shapes and makes the material really strong.

• Finishing touches.

After curing, the bonded tooth or teeth are polished and refined to make them look smooth and natural. Your dentist will also check your bite and make sure the new shape of your teeth feels comfortable during chewing and when you close your mouth. They may make a few last tweaks.

After the procedure (throughout which anaesthetic is rarely needed), you’ll be told how to care for your new bonding. Aftercare is usually standard: brushing twice a day with a soft brush, flossing daily and avoiding biting on very hard foods with the bonded area. For the first 48 hours after application, you should avoid staining foods and drinks.

Final Key Takeaways

• Most composite bonding is done in one visit and can take as little as 30 minutes.
• It’s usually painless.
• The result is repairable. If the resin chips or stains over time, it can often be touched up.
• With good care, your composite bonding typically lasts several years. This varies by person and habits.

Book your free consultation, online or in-clinic, to start your composite bonding journey.

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