Composite Bonding & Smile Makeover

Bonding

• What is composite bonding?

  Composite bonding (also known as tooth bonding or dental bonding) offers a solution for minor damage or gaps in teeth.

  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 bonding can help you achieve a smile you’re happier with. Please contact our reception team to find out more about composite bonding.

• What are the benefits of composite bonding?

  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 UV light as soon as it’s applied, resulting in a tooth that can comfortably bite down by the end of the appointment.

  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.

  Composite bonding can make cosmetic improvements to your smile quickly, without causing further damage to your teeth.

  Composite bonding can be a cheaper alternative to crowns or veneers. It’s also a less invasive process and can be completed in just one appointment. And with regular brushing and good oral hygiene, your composite bonds should last for years.

• 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.
  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 can composite bonding work with teeth whitening?

  Composite bonding can also be a solution for staining in teeth and fillings. It can be used alongside teeth whitening treatments to help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile.

  If you are planning to have composite bonding, the dentist will typically recommend that you have any teeth whitening treatments first. The composite resin will be selected to match your teeth colour, so it is advisable to get them to your preferred shade before treatment for bonding begins. Once the composite bond has been placed, it is not possible to whiten it further.

• What is the treatment process?

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

 

What is SmileFast?

We are one of the few practices nationwide that offers “SmileFast”, which is a new cutting-edge approach without much of the usual cutting, where we can achieve a "smile makeover" with composite bonding in just one application. The treatment uses a revolutionary stent to help make the finished product, along with meticulous planning and the latest advances in 3D planning technology. So “SmileFast” is one of the most accurate ways to produce the smile you want, with you in control of the end product from the get-go.

"SmileFast" uses direct composite, the white shiny resins we bond to teeth, which takes much less tooth cutting than traditional porcelain & ceramic to achieve the smile perfection you wish. "SmileFast" involves far less in-chair time with the dentist than other cosmetic bonding treatments, making it more comfortable and efficient for you too, as well as being less expensive than traditional porcelain & ceramic treatments. It not only saves you time, but is also kinder to the precious tooth enamel.

This means it is now possible for you to enjoy an amazing new smile without all of the usual invasive procedures we have had to go through with you, with a quite short treatment time, and at a reduced cost, yet it still looks just as amazing.

If you still don’t know if this can be used for your smile problems, "SmileFast" is perfect for:

• Colour or texture change. Have discolouration? Rough or grooved teeth? SmileFast’s direct composite bonding masks all sorts of imperfections
• Acid erosion wear. We know that acidic foods and tummy acid can quickly erode our teeth. SmileFast is able to restore erosion and eradicate the staining caused by acidic foods
• Toothwear. No matter how careful you are somehow there is no escaping daily wear and tear on the edges of teeth. SmileFast is able to restore teeth back to their perfect proportions
• Spacing, gaps when you smile. “SmileFast” can close the gaps between front teeth instantly
• Crowded and aged teeth. Using “SmileFast”, mild crowding can even be masked and the smile can therefore appear younger

With our detailed planning before carrying out your ‘’SmileFast’’ makeover we can offer our patients a trial smile which allows you to see the end result before undergoing the treatment so there are no surprises. We use SmileFast’s hi-tech digital imaging to design your perfect smile and show you a sneak peek of how you’ll look after treatment. First, we do this with a photo simulation and then after this, a mock-up in your mouth so that you can fully visualise the treatment.

For more information, please visit SmileFast website https://smilefast.com

The first SmileFast consultation is currently being offered at no charge. Please contact our reception team to book an appointment.

How do I care for my composite bond and SmileFast?

Here are a few tips for ensuring your bond stays strong and unstained:

• Avoid tea, coffee, smoking and food which may stain for 48 hours after having the -procedure done.
• Brush your teeth often and see the hygienist regularly to maintain good oral health. This will help your composite bond stay clean and unstained.
• Avoid biting nails or chewing items such as pen lids, which may chip the material. Bonds aren’t as strong as a normal tooth so it’s important to take precautions to avoid damage.

With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, your composite bond should last for years.