What is composite bonding?

Composite bonding is a cosmetic treatment performed by dental specialists used to fill in chips, gaps or fractures in one's teeth, which can help to restore teeth to their original appearance. It is a quick, one-day procedure and can be performed without the use of anaesthesia. 

How is composite bonding performed?

In a typical composite bonding dental procedure, the dentist will bond a white filling material onto the patient's tooth, without the necessity to damage the tooth in the process. The dentist performing composite bonding can also either change the shape, size and/or colour of the tooth/teeth and the dentist will match the composite resin used to the colour of the patient's teeth in order to preserve a natural appearance of the tooth that has received composite bonding treatment.

It is very similar to a direct filling in the tooth. Before the treatment, the dentist will prepare the patient's tooth appropriately by slightly roughening the surface of the tooth being performed on. Following this, the tooth will then be coated with a liquid substance to assist the composite resin to stick more smoothly and easily. The resin is then moulded into the necessary shape and size. Once applied, the composite is hardened by the dentist through the use of an ultraviolet (UV) light. This ensures that the patient can bite down. 

How long does composite bonding typically last?

In the majority of cases, composite bonding typically lasts between five to seven years. 

Can composite bonding fail? If so, in what ways?

Occasionally, composite bonding can indeed fail, usually in the form of chipping or breaking. Staining of the composite bonding is also another possibility. These failings however, are easily and quickly amended, as composite bonding failing is easily repaired. Patients should be aware that composites require regular maintenance in the form of daily flossing and brushing, regularly visiting their dentist, as well as avoiding biting hard foods. Patients who grind their teeth in their sleep should wear a custom-made nightguard to help protect the composite bond. 

What are the main advantages of composite bonding?

There are numerous advantages of composite bonding, such as: 

• it is a quick, one-day procedure
• it is a minimally invasive procedure
• it restores a healthy looking smile
• it increases one's confidence
• cheaper alternative to crowns or veneers
• it results in a brighter, whiter smile

How often does a tooth composite bonding need to be upgraded?

It depends entirely on one's diet. Patients who have had composite bonding performed on their teeth should avoid drinking wine and should try to avoid smoking, as this will cause staining and discolouring of the composites. If patients brush their teeth on a frequent basis and practice good oral hygiene, their composite bonding will remain in good condition, provided that they avoid wine and cigarettes as much as possible. 

Which specialist performs composite bonding?

Cosmetic dentists are the expert specialists in carrying out a composite bonding dental treatment.