Composite bonding is a quick, affordable, and conservative cosmetic dentistry treatment that can restore chipped, discolored, or misshapen teeth. This minimally invasive procedure applies tooth-colored composite material directly onto the tooth surface. Read on to learn all about the composite bonding process, aftercare, costs, and alternatives.
What is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding is a procedure that uses dental composite resin to repair and enhance the appearance of teeth. The composite material, available in natural tooth shades, is applied directly onto the tooth surface and sculpted into shape.
Unlike dental veneers or crowns, composite bonding preserves more of the natural tooth structure. Only a small amount of roughening or contouring is required before the composite is layered on top.
Composite bonding is an excellent way to cosmetically improve teeth with relatively minor flaws at an affordable price point compared to other options. It works well for small chips, gaps, stains, or minor alignment issues.
The Composite Bonding Procedure
Getting composite bonding work done takes just one short visit:
- The teeth are prepared by lightly roughening the surface to allow the composite to bond effectively.
- The tooth shade is matched to select an appropriately colored composite resin.
- The composite material is shaped and contoured over the surface of the teeth needing restoration.
- Careful sculpting creates a natural, seamless look that blends with surrounding teeth.
- The dentist uses a special curing light to harden and adhere the composite material.
- Finally, finished bonding is smoothed and polished for a shine that mimics natural tooth luster.
- Tooth preparation – Teeth are roughened using a mild acid solution or micro-abrasion to create a strong bond.
- Etching – An etchant is applied after conditioning to further roughen and prepare the surface. Rinsed off after 20-30 seconds.
- Bonding agent – A thin adhesive is painted on prior to placing the composite to ensure durable bonding.
- Curing light – An LED or halogen light quickly hardens and sets the composite material once sculpted into place.
- Polishing – Gives a smooth, glossy finish. May require repeat polishing at follow-up visit for highest shine.
- Local anesthesia – Typically a topical agent is applied first to numb the area, followed by an injection if needed.
- Technology used – Many dentists use intraoral cameras and digital scans versus messy impression materials.
- Temporary bonding – An option if the final shade or contours need evaluation before permanently bonding.
- Types of composites – Choices include microfill, nanocomposite, or ormocer-based formulas. Vary in strength, aesthetics.
- Benefits – More affordable, faster, conservative, and customizable than dental crowns or veneers.
The entire process takes about 30-60 minutes per tooth depending on bonding extent needed. With only minimal numbing, it is comfortable and fast.
Caring for Composite Bondings
While durable, composite bonding does require proper care:
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing once daily.
- Avoid biting nails or chewing on hard items like ice or pens which could crack bondings.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports to protect bonded teeth from trauma.
- See your dentist promptly if you notice stains, fractures, or loss of bonding material.
- Get professional teeth cleanings every 6 months. Inform hygienists you have bonding.
With adequate home care and routine dental visits, composite bonds can last 5-7 years before repairs or replacement are needed.
What Does Composite Bonding Cost?
Composite bonding is one of the most budget-friendly cosmetic dental treatments. Costs are affected by:
- Extent of bonding – More teeth or surface area bonded increases cost.
- Dentist fees – Cosmetic dentistry specialists may charge more.
- Composite material used – Higher quality equals greater expense.
- Insurance – Dental plans may cover a portion of the cost.
On average, expect to pay:
- $100-$300 per tooth for minor composite bonding
- $250-$600 per tooth for more significant bonding
- $600-$1,500+ for a full smile makeover
Many dentists offer affordable monthly payment plans for composite bonding procedures.
Alternatives to Composite Bonding
While less invasive, composite bonding may not work well for patients needing extensive restorations. Alternatives include:
- Porcelain veneers – More durable but require removing more natural tooth.
- Dental crowns – Required if covering 50% or more of the tooth surface.
- Orthodontics – Can align moderately gapped or crooked teeth.
- Dental bridges – Span space of missing teeth via crowns on adjacent teeth.
Consult an experienced cosmetic dentist to determine if another solution like veneers or orthodontics may be better suited to your needs.
Affordable Composite Bonding Deals
Getting a flawless smile through composite bonding doesn’t have to be costly. Thousand Smiles Dental Clinic offers excellent composite bonding deals in London and across the UK.
Our dental practice provides high-quality cosmetic dentistry at affordable prices. We use top composite materials to ensure durability and natural aesthetics.
Some of our composite bonding deals include:
- New patient specials – Discounts on first-time bonding procedures.
- Bulk discounts – Reduced rates when bonding multiple teeth in one visit.
- Loyalty rewards – Savings for returning patients needing additional bonding.
- Holiday promotions – Special bundle pricing offered seasonally.
- Payment plans – Interest-free monthly payment options to spread out the cost.
- Guaranteed low UK prices – We meet or beat any bonding quote from other practices.
Whether you need minor chips repaired or a smile makeover, our composite bonding deals provide quality treatments at prices that fit your budget. For flawless, budget-friendly composite bonding deals in London, contact Thousand Smiles Dental Clinic today to schedule your consultation!