Composite bonding, also known as Dental bonding, is a cosmetic procedure that involves applying a composite resin material to improve misshapen teeth and conceal small flaws such as chips and stains. The procedure, also known as tooth bonding, is the quickest and least expensive cosmetic dentistry procedure.
Advanced Dental Aesthetics in Southend provides composite bonding to patients all over Essex and beyond, both as a standalone procedure or as part of a comprehensive smile makeover. Our dental team has extensive experience performing tooth bonding procedures and is renowned for the impressive aesthetic results we’ve been delivering to our patients in Southend, Essex, for many years.
You may be a good candidate for bonding if you’re self-conscious of any of the following:
If you’re interested in composite bonding, the first step is to consult with our dental team and discuss your treatment goals. We treat a lot of patients who tell us they dislike a space between their front teeth or have one tooth that looks significantly smaller than the other teeth. Once we determine composite bonding is appropriate for your needs, we’ll use a special guide to help select the resin colour that bests matches the colour of your teeth so the end result gives you a fresh, natural-looking smile.
Typically, composite bonding can be completed in a single appointment. It does not require impressions, moulds, or temporary restorations.
Prior to beginning treatment, your Southend Dentist will place a rubber piece to isolate the teeth from the gums and prevent moisture from interfering with treatment.
Your dentist will prepare the tooth to receive the bonding material. We’ll apply a gentle phosphoric acid solution to the tooth enamel to create tiny channels or etches; this helps the bonding material adhere more strongly; similar to how a piece of sandpaper roughs up a surface to help paint adhere.
After the tooth has been prepared, we’ll carefully apply the putty-like resin to the tooth. We then mold and smooth it until the tooth has the proper shape and size, adding more resin as needed. The next stage is to harden the bonding material with an ultraviolet light or laser. After it has hardened, we usually make some final adjustments to the material, and polish it until it looks translucent like natural tooth enamel. By the end of treatment the bonded tooth should be indistinguishable from the surrounding teeth.
With the proper care and attention, composite bonding can last for many years. The key is to avoid eating hard or sticky foods or chewing on substances that could crack the material e.g. like ice or pen caps. Bonded teeth should be brushed and flossed regularly. Keep in mind that composite resin material is not as strong as natural tooth enamel and will not sustain chronic tooth grinding or clenching.
If you’re interested in finding out more about composite bonding and how it can help improve the appearance of your smile, please contact our dental practice today. Call 01702 584000 or email info@advanceddental.co.uk
