COMPOSITE BONDING

Composite bonding is a versatile treatment used primarily for cosmetic purposes, but it also offers a practical solution for minor dental issues, restoring both the aesthetics and function of teeth. Compared to alternatives such as crowns or veneers, composite bonding is generally less invasive and more cost-effective. However, it may not offer the same level of durability and may require periodic maintenance or touch-ups over time.

The procedure involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to the surface of the tooth to correct imperfections such as chips, cracks, gaps, or discolouration. The resin is carefully shaped by hand and cured to secure it in place, followed by precise adjustments and polishing to achieve the desired result. Composite bonding is often performed in conjunction with teeth whitening to enhance the overall appearance of the smile.

Enquire about Composite Bonding

The Composite Bonding Process

Consultation and Planning

You will have your first appointment with Dr Anthony Barnes. He will assess your teeth and suitability for composite bonding treatment. Clinical assessment, photographs, x-rays and a 3D scan using the latest digital technology will be carried out.

Anthony will discuss your treatment needs and goals and advise if additional treatment or alternatives may be more suitable for your smile.

Design Process

If you are suitable for treatment, Dr Anthony Barnes will create your bespoke smile design either using a digitally planned smile design (DSD) or a free hand mock-up based on your discussions during the consultation stage. This will be transferred as a mock-up into your mouth directly to show you how your newly designed bespoke smile will appear. At this stage any changes can be made.

Placement

In most cases the tooth will require minimal if no tooth preparation at all. The tooth will be cleaned prior to placement and an etch will be applied to prepare the tooth surface.

A bonding agent is then applied and a tooth-coloured composite resin is applied directly to the tooth surface. The resin is malleable, and is shaped and layered with various shades tints and cured with a light throughout the process.

Shaping and polishing

Finally the final shape is expertly contoured and the composite resin is polished to

resemble the natural appearance of enamel.

Why Composite
Bonding?

Advantages of Composite Bonding:

• Typically done in one visit with no need for anesthesia (unless the tooth is decayed).

• Compared to other cosmetic procedures like veneers or crowns, composite bonding is usually more affordable.

• The material is customisable to match the colour of your natural teeth, creating a seamless appearance.

• It requires little to no removal of tooth enamel.

Disadvantages:

• While durable, composite bonding materials are more prone to staining, chipping, or wear compared to porcelain veneers or crowns.

• The bonding may need to be replaced or touched up over time, especially in high-contact areas like the front teeth.

Overall, composite bonding is an effective and non-invasive option for improving the appearance of teeth and is suitable for addressing a variety of cosmetic concerns such as chipped, cracked, or discoloured teeth.