Cosmetic bonding, also known as composite or dental bonding, is a cutting-edge and popular process in cosmetic dentistry that may completely transform your smile in just one visit. Dental crowns or veneers are more expensive and take longer to complete than cosmetic bonding, which may be completed in just one visit to your dentist, saving you both time and money.
Overview of Treatment
- Used for: cracks, chips, gaps, broken and discolored teeth
- Treatment time: 30 to 60 min
- Treatment cost: $180 – $400 per tooth depending on the procedure
- Available at: clinics providing cosmetic dental treatments
The procedure entails the deft/artistic application of the proper quantity and shade of “dental composite,” a moldable substance consisting of synthetic resins. Cosmetic Bonding is used for various cosmetic dental procedures, including:
- Repairing cracked and chipped teeth
- Repairing broken or discolored teeth
- Closing small gaps between the teeth
- Reshaping your teeth
Composite Bonding for Cavities
Since the material can match the color, translucency, and even texture of your natural teeth, dental composite bonding is a popular alternative to out-dated amalgam/silver fillings, which can be ugly when you smile. Old metal fillings are frequently replaced by tooth-colored composite by cosmetic dentists. The safety of mercury-containing amalgam fillings is a topic of significant discussion in dentistry, but studies show that dental amalgam is a safe restorative option for both children and adults. However, many dentists still believe that despite the use of mercury in amalgam fillings, it must be removed using a safe process that entails isolating the teeth using a rubber dam material.
Since the material does not have a robust structure over wide areas, bonding is not recommended if you have teeth with numerous major cavities. For little fillings that aren’t subject to a lot of strain, bonding is ideal. Many dentists are now using CAD/CAM CEREC technology to create ceramic fillings (inlays), which offer the advantages of both strength and aesthetics and may be fitted in the same visit within an hour, as a result of recent advancements in dental technology. It can take two to three weeks for dental technicians to produce a ceramic filling at some practices.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Composite Bonding
Benefits include:
- No injections are necessary for the painless operation
- No drilling is required, preserving the natural tooth structure
- Assure both functionality and aesthetics
- Any issues can be quickly fixed
- Durability – If the patient takes proper care of the bonding and visits the hygienist on a regular basis, it should last between 5 and 7 years
- Only one dental visit is required; no lab work is required
- Cost – Less expensive than other cosmetic procedures because to lower laboratory fees
The following are some drawbacks:
- It isn’t as durable as other cosmetic materials; under stress, the bonding may crack or chip
- It lasts a lot less time than the anticipated 15-year lifespan of a porcelain veneer
Cost of a Cosmetic Bonding Treatment
The type of bonding procedure, the materials the dentist will be utilizing, and the experience of the cosmetic dentist will all affect the cost of the bonding procedure. However, the cost of the aesthetic bonding procedure varies from $180 to $400 per tooth.
You should be aware that not all dentists are equally proficient at bonding, which calls for a high level of creative ability. In the field of dental bonding, certain aesthetic dentists will have completed substantial postgraduate study. Ask your dentist if they have any experience in this field and if you can view examples of their prior work.
Cosmetic Bonding: A Step-by-Step Guide
- The procedure is quite easy. In order to match the color of your natural tooth, your cosmetic dentist will first choose the proper resin color.
- After the tooth’s surface has been roughened by the dentist, a bonding liquid will be applied, creating an adhesive surface that will work.
- A resin that resembles tooth-colored paste will next be molded into the desired shape and solidified by UV rays.
- Next, the bonding will be carefully formed, including any necessary trimming. The polish will next be applied to match the surface of your teeth.
Aftercare for Composite Bonding
The lifespan of a bonded tooth can be increased by maintaining good oral hygiene. Among the self-care advice are:
- Regular flossing and at least twice-daily brushing
- Refraining from sugar and hard food
- Avoiding nail biting
- To prevent stains, refraining from coffee, tea, and smoke for the first two days following the surgery
- Arranging routine dental check-ups every six months
If you feel any sharp or rough edges after the procedure, or if you accidentally chip or break the bonding material, visit your dentist.
An attractive smile boosts self-confidence. For a consultation, seek for a seasoned, award-winning dental professional if you have discoloration, a chipped tooth, or a gap and are searching for a low-cost treatment. If the treatment is not appropriate for you, your dentist can suggest alternative options to enhance the appearance of your teeth.
Dr. Luke Thorley (BDS (Hons) PG Cert Imp) is an award-winning clinical director and principal dentist at Royal Wharf Dental in London.
