The demand for cosmetic dentistry is increasing, with whitening procedures, braces and veneers becoming more and more common. The problem is, braces can be a slow and painful process, and veneers involve filing down your natural tooth, before fitting the porcelain cap on top. And while teeth whitening is the quick and most cost-effective treatment, it can’t fix everything.

Braces can be a slow and painful process, and veneers involve filing down your natural tooth, before fitting the porcelain cap on top. And while teeth whitening is the quick and most cost-effective treatment, it can’t fix everything.

How does Composite Bonding work?

Composite bonding is a cosmetic technique wherein a type of dental material, in this case, composite resin, is shaped and moulded on your teeth to give the appearance of a straighter, whiter smile. Your dentist will then add the composite resin, cure it with a special light and finish by polishing your teeth. Because the process involves a high level of technique for a natural mould and shape, it’s best to work with a dentist who has experience in this area.

 

Will I have to have my teeth drilled?

Unlike traditional veneer or crowns, which require the tooth to be permanently reduced in size by drilling before the veneers can be fitted on top, composite bonding can be applied on top of the natural tooth. Bonding is a bit like adding shellac to the nails. It can be used to cover the whole surface or just the edges, which means minimal destruction to the teeth.

 

What kind of conditions can composite bonding treat?

It can be used as a cosmetic solution to chipped teeth, gapped teeth and staining in both teeth and fillings. The treatment is also very popular among teeth grinders who have worn down the edges of their teeth.

 

How long does it take?

The upper 6 teeth are usually treated and this takes 1-2 hours in one session followed by a 30 minute review. If it’s just one tooth that needs treating then you could be in and out within the hour.

 

What are the cons?

As with any treatment, there is a downside. Bonding is more prone to chipping and staining and is not suitable for all dental cases. If your smile is crooked as the result of an over or underbite, this treatment won’t serve to correct it. Instead, speak with your dentist to determine if more in-depth work is needed, like adjusting your bite or any complex chips or gaps in your teeth. Bonding is primarily for those who seek a cosmetic solution for teeth that are otherwise healthy.

 

Aftercare

Having bonding requires maintenance so you’ll need to see your dentist for regular check ups. The teeth are also prone to chipping and staining so you should avoid biting down on particularly hard foods or ice to prevent cracking.

 

How much does it cost?

Composite bonding costs €250 per tooth which is far less than some of the alternative options like veneers, which start at around 700 euros per tooth.