Is Composite Bonding Bad for Your Teeth?

One in four people in the UK are unhappy with their smile and facial appearance, the results of a recent survey reveal. What was more alarming was that over 77% of these surveyed individuals wanted to change something about their smile, to appear more attractive and approachable.

 

 

If you are also unhappy with your crooked or stained teeth that ruin your smile and self-confidence, you can benefit from composite bonding. Did you know that composite bonding is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic dentistry procedures worldwide? So, what’s stopping you from transforming your smile with dental bonding? Here’s a comprehensive guide on composite bonding so that you make an informed decision about your oral health and facial aesthetics.   

 

 

What Is Composite Teeth Bonding?

 

 

According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, bonding is a straightforward procedure which involves the placement of a tooth-coloured filling material on damaged teeth to restore their structure, function, and aesthetic. Dental bonding is routinely performed by dentists worldwide for complete smile makeovers. 

 

 

What Is The Process Of Getting Composite Bonding Veneers?

 

 

The process of getting composite bonding is straightforward and is typically completed in a single sitting. First, your dentist will remove the damaged tooth structure and clean the surface where the filling is to be applied. Next, they will apply an etchant on the prepared tooth surface for 30 seconds to create micropores. 

 

 

After washing away the etchant, your dentist will apply the bonding agent on the prepared tooth surface in small increments. After placing each increment, they will harden it using a special light. In this way, your dentist will shape the entire tooth. Finally, they will polish the restored surface to maximise the aesthetics and prevent the future chances of plaque formation. 

 

 

How Safe Is Dental Composite Bonding?

 

 

According to the Cleveland Clinic, dental bonding doesn’t pose any risk to the body if one has healthy teeth and gums. Problems with teeth bonding usually occur when novice dentists use low-quality materials to cut their costs. These inferior-quality materials contain ingredients that may cause allergic or adverse reactions in the body. So, if you’re considering dental bonding from an experienced and qualified dentist, then you have nothing to worry about. 

 

 

Can Bonded Teeth Be Whitened?

 

 

Dental bonding is an excellent option for restoring the aesthetics of damaged teeth. However, if the bonded teeth get stained, then there is no way to whiten them. This is because teeth whitening doesn’t work on composite bonding. So, if someone has bonded fillings with coffee, tobacco, or tea stains, the only option is to repair or replace the filling with a fresh one. 

 

 

How To Get Stains Off Bonded Teeth?

 

 

As mentioned earlier, tobacco, coffee, or tea stains on bonded restorations cannot be removed through bleaching or professional whitening. The only solution for removing stains from bonded restorations is to apply a fresh coat over them or replace the filling with a fresh one. Staining of bonded restorations is one of the reasons why they need replacement after a few years. But the good news is that staining of bonded restorations can be prevented by eating a tooth-friendly, fibre-rich diet and ensuring optimal oral hygiene. 

 

 

How Long Will Front Teeth Bonding Last?

 

 

Dental bonding on the front teeth typically lasts anywhere between three and ten years. The clinical lifetime of bonded restorations depends on various factors, such as the quality of the material used, the patient’s oral hygiene status and diet management, and the skill and expertise of the dentist. However, one can significantly enhance the clinical life of their bonded restorations by maintaining optimal oral health and visiting their dentist regularly for checkups. 

 

 

Do Composite Veneers Ruin Your Teeth?

 

 

Composite bonding done right will not ruin your teeth. On the contrary, composite bonding can help restore various aesthetic and structural tooth defects and can be used for a complete smile makeover. 

 

 

What Is The Age Limit For Composite Bonding?

 

 

There is no age limit for teeth bonding. Dental bonding can be applied to any permanent tooth. So, whether you’re sixteen or sixty, you can benefit from composite restorations.

 

 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Dental Bonding?

 

 

When compared with traditional silver amalgam restorations, dental bonding offers various benefits:

 

 

  • Aesthetics – the shade and colour of bonded fillings can be precisely matched with natural teeth. So, they become perfectly blended and are virtually indistinguishable. 
  • Safety – bonded fillings are absolutely safe for restoring damaged teeth. 
  • Bonding to Tooth Structure – composite fillings can bond directly to natural teeth. Hence, they require minimal removal of natural tooth structure, unlike silver amalgam fillings. 
  • Repairability – The bonding procedure is completely reversible. So, if you damage one of your composite fillings, it can be easily repaired or replaced. 

 

 

Is Dental Bonding Permanent?

 

 

Dental bonding, like other dental procedures and treatments, is not permanent. According to the Cleveland Clinic, one may require touchups to their bonded restorations every three to ten years. However, the good news is that with proper oral hygiene and dietary care, one can significantly enhance the lifetime of their bonded fillings. 

 

 

Are you searching for the best cosmetic dentist in Didcot, Oxford? Your best option is to visit The Oxford Smile Clinics, where we offer the highest-quality dental services through our qualified dentists. So, book a free consultation with us today and let us take care of you entire family’s dental health.