Composite Bonding
What is composite bonding?
Composite is a white dental material that can be used to “bond” to the natural teeth in order to make fine alterations to their appearance. Composite bonding has many purposes but is most commonly used to improve the cosmetic appearance of the teeth by adding length, fixing small chips, closing gaps or even masking slight rotations of teeth.
It has become very popular as a treatment for improving the appearance of the smile as it usually does not require any use of a dental drill, therefore making it far less invasive and also more cost-effective when compared to other options such as porcelain veneers.
Am I suitable for composite bonding?
Generally speaking most individuals are suitable for composite bonding.
However, it is essential that a full consultation is undertaken beforehand to ensure that a more suitable treatment plan isn’t more appropriate. Factors that the dentist will need to take into consideration include:
- your oral hygiene
- how the top and bottom teeth bite together
- and the condition of the teeth, as it can be difficult to bond to heavily filled or badly worn teeth.
What is the treatment for composite bonding?
Treatment Procedure
Composite bonding is a meticulous treatment when done properly. Therefore it is common for appointments to take 2-3 hours in order to achieve the best possible result.
On the day of treatment, usually, local anaesthetic is not required. A shade match will be taken initially to ensure that any composite additions match exactly to the rest of your tooth. Once a decision is made on the shade match, the dentist will then gently polish the area to be bonded to, this will increase the bond strength and therefore longevity of the treatment.
The dentist then applies a range of adhesive liquids to the tooth surface before placing the composite itself. The composite is built up in layers, before being moulded and shaped to mimic a natural tooth shape. Each layer is hardened with ultraviolet light. Shaping and polishing are then carried out to refine the final result.
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We have generations of happy patients from all over Ireland, our aim is to provide affordable dental care which is of the best quality possible.
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I am a VERY nervous patient and absolutely dread going to the dentist but Paul and his team do their very best to make me feel at ease which is not an easy task. They talk you through each step before they do anything. I would 100% recommend this dentist to anyone especially if you're nervous about visiting a dentist
Lynn KellyApril 5, 2023
Questions regarding Composite Bonding
What are the realistic results for composite bonding?
It is important to always have realistic expectations when seeking any cosmetic improvement to your teeth. Composite bonding is most suitable for small refinements to otherwise healthy teeth. Composite is unlikely to last forever and may over time chip or break and therefore need to be replaced or refined. If well looked after, composite bonding would be expected to last 5-10 years.
Unfortunately, replacement or refinement at this time would incur a further charge. Composite also stains more than porcelain alternatives, this means that it is crucial to see your dentist for regular examinations as they will be able to polish away initial staining before it becomes noticeable. If you are a heavy tea, coffee or red wine drinker it is essential to make your dentist aware of this before treatment is started.
What is composite bonding?
Composite is a white dental material that can be used to “bond” to the natural teeth in order to make fine alterations to their appearance. Composite bonding has many purposes but is most commonly used to improve the cosmetic appearance of the teeth by adding length, fixing small chips, closing gaps or even masking slight rotations of teeth. It has become very popular as a treatment for improving the appearance of the smile as it usually does not require any use of a dental drill, therefore making it far less invasive and also more cost-effective when compared to other options such as porcelain veneers.
How much does composite bonding cost?
Composite bonding varies depending on the number of surfaces being altered as well as the number of teeth being treated. Treatment can vary from €125-€275 per tooth.
Can you whiten composite bonded teeth?
Unfortunately composite does not whiten in the same manner that teeth do. Therefore, your dentist may recommend that if you are considering whitening your teeth at any point in the near future, then you carry this out prior to any cosmetic composite bonding.
Is composite bonding worth it?
Composite bonding is a great alternative to more traditional invasive procedures such as veneers and crowns. Whether it’s worth it for you or not can only really be answered at a consultation appointment as every patient’s case is different. Your dentist will give you an honest overview of your expected success.
Are composite veneers the same as bonding?
No. A “veneer” is a thin covering that is bonded over the front surface of the tooth to improve its cosmetic appearance. Veneers are more traditionally porcelain however in recent years there has been a move towards composite veneers, using the same material as with composite bonding.
Usually with any veneer, however, a small amount of tooth is required to be removed from the front surface otherwise the tooth will appear too bulky. Composite veneers are usually used in cases where a significant difference is sought, whereas composite bonding is for small adjustments and refinements to otherwise healthy teeth.
Can composite bonding be removed?
Yes, composite bonding can be removed. However, it is a complex and time-consuming process to do so. Composite bonding is thought of as a permanent treatment and therefore if you are seeking treatment, it is important to get the result perfect the first time round.
Can composite bonding fix crooked teeth?
Composite bonding can be used to camouflage slight rotations in your teeth. However, it may be that there is a more appropriate solution for your “crooked teeth” which is why consultation is so important. Your dentist will inform you what treatment plan would be best in your individual case.
Can composite bonding straighten teeth?
Composite bonding can occasionally be used to camouflage teeth that are not straight. However often there is a more appropriate solution to straighten teeth, such as Invisalign. Your dentist will inform you at consultation what treatment plan would be best in your individual case.
How much do Dental Crowns cost?
Composite bonding varies depending on the number of surfaces being altered as well as the number of teeth being treated. Treatment can vary from €125-€275 per tooth.
At Colm Smith Dental we provide our patients with the knowledge and expertise needed to get the best results. Our pricing is competitive, and our dentists are highly skilled. Please see our price list below or call one of our practices in Cootehill and Monaghan to find out more.
PRSI & Medical Card
PRSI Scale & Polish for 15 euro
PRSI- Please present your PPS number and with your signed consent, Colm Smith Dental can check your eligibility. If you are eligible, your check-up will be free and a regular scale and polish with the dentist or hygienist will be €15.
Medical Card Cover
Medical Card- if you hold a medical card, with your consent Colm Smith Dental can check your eligibility prior to your appointment. If you are eligible, you are entitled to a free examination, 2 fillings and all extractions per calendar year. Other treatments are available on the Medical card; however prior approval is required from the HSE.
Your Dental Clinic
Find out why generations of families choose Colm Smith Dental
Every patient is treated like family, and that is what makes us different than other clinics. Each patient has a unique set of needs, therefore each patient needs to be treated differently.
You are more than a number for us here at Colm Smith Dental, and we promise to do our utmost to ensure you have a healthy smile and mouth, and you have a reason to smile leaving our clinic
Colm & Lucia Smith
CONTACT US TODAY
If you are unsure what treatment you may need, please fill out the appointment form with as much information as possible and we will contact you as soon as we can.
We have Dental Clinics in Cootehill in Cavan and also in Monaghan centre.