What is composite veneer?

Composite veneer (also known as tooth bonding or dental bonding or composite bonding) offers a solution for minor damage or gaps in teeth. When carried out as a cosmetic treatment, it is not available on the NHS but at Dental Artistry practice offer cosmetic composite bonding.

Dental bonding is usually used for filling chips, fractures or gaps between teeth, or for fixing discolouration.

A composite resin is attached to a tooth and shaped to restore its original appearance. The colour of the resin is matched to your teeth, so it will appear as though it is a natural part of the tooth.

Composite Veneers: Before and after

What are the benefits of composite veneers?

Fast and effective

Composite bonding can usually be carried out in just one visit to the dentist. It’s a fast and effective way to fix minor cosmetic issues.

The composite is hardened using curing light as soon as it’s applied, resulting in a tooth that can comfortably bite down by the end of the appointment.

Non-invasive

Bonding is also a non-invasive procedure. With alternatives such as crowns and veneers, part of the tooth is permanently removed.

For composite bonding to be applied, the surface of the tooth only has to be roughened to help the resin to bond, meaning the structure of the tooth remains intact.

What is the procedure for composite bonding?

Your dentist will start by choosing a resin colour that matches your tooth best so that the resin attachment looks natural. Your tooth will then be prepared for treatment by slightly roughening the surface. It will then be coated with a liquid which helps the resin to adhere smoothly.

The resin will be applied and moulded into the required shape. It is hardened with a curing light before being shaped again and polished by your dentist until it matches the rest of the tooth.

Get in touch with us if you want to discuss composite bonding.

Can you have composite bonding with gum disease?

If you have gum disease, or had it previously, you may notice your gums have receded (shrunk). This can cause spaces to appear between some of your teeth. Composite bonding can be used to mask these spaces. However, if you still have gum disease, your dentist will need to treat and resolve it first.

What are the alternatives to composite bonding?

The usual alternative options to composite bonding are:

• Veneers – A veneer is a thin moulding custom-made from porcelain, which is bonded to the front surface of a tooth. They can also be used to cover gaps in teeth where orthodontic treatment may not be suitable. We are the only dental clinic which places non-cutting veneers in a day.
• Crowns – A crown is a tooth-shaped ‘cap’ that’s placed over the entire visible portion of your tooth. A crown will feel and function just like any of your other teeth. And if you choose to have a porcelain crown, it will be virtually indistinguishable from your other teeth.

Both of these alternatives cause some damage to teeth. Veneers are a popular option which can last for many years but as they are made from porcelain, the tooth has to be cut down to fit them, which causes some permanent damage. Similarly, for a crown to be fitted, a dentist has to remove some of the healthy part of your tooth.

Bonding is a quick, less expensive and non-invasive procedure, and it can be easily repaired if damaged or broken. Talk to your dentist about your options. They will be able to advise you on whether composite bonding is the right treatment for you.

How do I care for my composite bond?

• REGULAR BRUSHING AND FLOSSING. One of the most important ways to care for your composite bonding is with regular brushing and flossing and see the hygienist regularly to maintain good oral health. Making sure to brush twice daily and floss at least once a day will ensure a healthy mouth and lessen the risk of decay with clean teeth. This will help your composite bond stay clean and unstained.
• AVOIDING FOODS, DRINKS AND ANYTHING THAT MAY STAIN YOUR TEETH. Avoid tea, coffee, smoking and food which may stain for 48 hours after having the procedure done. Another way to ensure your composite bonding stays looking its best is to avoid foods that may stain or alter the colour. Some of these drinks may include red wine, coffee and fruit juices and any foods with artificial colouring like candies. Smoking cigarettes and using chewing tobacco is also likely to stain both your bonding and natural teeth yellow.
• AVOIDING BAD HABITS. To minimise the chance of your composite bonding chipping, and breaking- there are a few bad habits to avoid. These habits are things such as biting your fingernails, the tops of pen lids or any other objects that are likely to wear down your composite bonding over time.