Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental treatment in which a plastic, called resin, is applied and bonded to a tooth. Also called composite bonding, it can be used to cosmetically improve the appearance of a discoloured or chipped tooth, or it can be used functionally to fill a cavity or hole in a tooth. The resin is then customised to the patient’s tooth colour, so looks natural and appealing for any type of dental treatment. Patients love dental bonding because it is a quick and inexpensive way to fix teeth or improve a smile.

Dental bonding can repair damaged teeth, improve an imperfection or fill in spaces and holes. The treatment can be completed in a shorter time than other cosmetic dental treatments, like veneers, and can be done in just one office visit. The result is a new and improved smile. Dental bonding can last five years or longer, depending on use and oral hygiene practices. Here are some situations where dental bonding can help:

• Worn teeth
• Discoloured teeth
• Tooth erosion
• Sensitive tooth (or teeth)
• Fill cavities
• Cover or replace old fillings
• Repair cracked tooth
• Lengthen teeth
• Protect exposed tooth root
• Protect sensitive teeth for more comfort

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your smile, chances are you’re stuck between two popular cosmetic procedures – Composite Bonded Veneers and Porcelain Veneers.

Composite bonded veneers and porcelain veneers share the same goal – to improve the look the cosmetic appearance of teeth and overhaul your smile. However, the process, cost, longevity, and timeframe to achieve those results looks quite different.

Composite

Composite veneers are a thin layer of resin that is bonded directly to the tooth in a single visit to the dentist. They are known by a myriad of different names, including:

• Composite bonded veneers
• Direct resin veneers
• Direct veneers
• Bonded resin veneers

Because they are bonded directly to the tooth, our team of cosmetic dentistry experts can mould, shape, and match the finish to your smile. Composite veneers can be placed, in a single visit to Elevate which means that we can transform your smile in a matter of hours – not weeks or months. Composite veneers are less expensive than porcelain and, depending on how you care for them, will last somewhere between four to eight years.

Porcelain

Porcelain veneers are a thin layer of porcelain that is custom-made to fit over the surface of your teeth and then applied on a second visit following a trial fitment. Porcelain is more durable and stain resistant than composite veneers which means that they can last for more than twice as long. As you might expect, greater durability and preparation time means that they also cost more than composite veneers.

If you’re stuck between porcelain and composite, have a chat with our team of cosmetic dentistry professionals. Following an initial consultation, we can assess and advise on the pros, cons, and viability of each treatment relative to your unique situation.

Dental bonding can be used to achieve a brighter, whiter smile – but once the bonding is applied, they cannot be further whitened. There is an endless supply of misinformation on this topic, so we’re just going to nip it in the bud – professional teeth whitening treatments and off-the-shelf products cannot be used to whiten resin.

Over time, bonding can become stained or discoloured. When you visit Elevate for a clean or general check-up, we can remove common composite stains and restore a brighter smile.

Like most things, the lifespan of your composite bonding will come down to how you use your teeth and how well you care for them. Other factors such as bruxism, general grinding, oral care, and even how you chew food can also come into play.

In general, composite resin will last somewhere between four to eight years.

No, composite bonding is generally not painful.

Depending on the nature of the treatment, our team may advise local anaesthetic to alleviate any sensitivity or discomfort before, during, or after the procedure. If the idea of going to the dentist (in any capacity) gives you the chills, then don’t fret – you’re not alone. Around 60% of people experience dental anxiety, which is why we take extra care create the most comfortable environment and ensure your comfort during the procedure.

Yes, one of the biggest advantages of composite dental bonding is that it can be repaired or replaced as and when required. If bonding is damaged, chipped, or broken, then we can repair it by applying more composite to the area. The process is similar to the original process of dental bonding and will usually involve:

1. Cleaning the area
2. Assessing damage
3. Roughening the surface ready for bonding
4. Applying bonding
5. Applying layers and shaping as required
6. Hardening the composite with a curing light

With dental bonding repairs, our goal is to create a natural, seamless finish that blends into your existing bonding. Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene will mitigate the risk of damage and ensures that bonding stays in good condition.

Get in touch today to book your initial consultation. During your initial consult, we will examine your teeth, assess your options, and provide you with all of the information that you need to make an informed decision. For minor fixes, or complete smile overhauls, the Elevate Dental team can make it happen with customised bonding solutions.