In the intricate world of dental solutions and treatments, one often finds themselves grappling with a multitude of questions. How long will composite bonding last? Is it the right procedure for me? And perhaps most significantly, what’s the financial cost? To shed light on these dilemmas, we have compiled a comprehensive guide highlighting the nuances of composite dental bonding so you can decide if it’s the optimal solution for you.
What Is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding, or composite resin bonding, is a transformative technique that employs a resinous material to reshape or fortify teeth. The procedure involves meticulously applying and sculpting a dough-like resin onto the teeth to secure it in position permanently.
If you would like to enhance your smile or rectify dental damage, composite bonding is an enticing option. The longevity of these bonding materials can range between three to ten years; however, this remains dependent on the level of your oral hygiene.
Pros and Cons of Composite Bonding
As with most choices in life, composite bonding presents a couple of advantages as well as disadvantages that warrant careful consideration. On the plus side, this procedure offers several compelling benefits, such as:
- Expedited completion, often accomplished within a single visit
- Little or no need for local anesthesia
- A cost-effective alternative in comparison to other treatments
- Preserves more of the natural tooth structure compared to options like crowns and veneers
However, you should tread with caution as there are inherent downsides to consider. They include:
- Less resistance to staining than alternative solutions
- A shorter lifespan compared to some alternatives
- Greater susceptibility to damage or breakage in the affected area
What To Expect During Your Visit
The time commitment required for a single-tooth bonding session typically spans between thirty minutes to an hour. Remarkably, numbing may not even be necessary during the procedure.
Your dental professional will commence by preparing your natural tooth by smoothing and applying a conditioning liquid. Subsequently, composite bonding resin is applied to match or enhance your tooth’s appearance.
For the finale, this will involve using a specialised light source to solidify the bond. Your dentist or orthodontist then sculpts the material to fashion the desired form and structure and ensure a harmonious bite.
Are you a Good Candidate for Composite Bonding?
Selecting the optimal dental solution hinges on several factors. However, it is worth noting when deciding on something as delicate as your oral health, no single option reigns supreme, and suitability will largely be contingent on individual needs.
You might be a suitable candidate for dental bonding if:
- You aspire to augment the appearance of your teeth, mend gaps, or enhance your smile
- You bear a fractured, chipped, or decayed tooth
- You would like to conceal an exposed tooth root
However, composite bonding may be less fitting if:
- Your bite is marred by misaligned teeth and requires adjustment
- You have inadequate natural tooth material to build the composite resin on
Also, when it comes to dental procedures, cost is a major factor that often takes centre stage in any decision. Fortunately, dental bonding is a cost-effective alternative when compared to other options. You can expect to allocate between £250 to £350 per tooth for a bonding procedure; this is a relative bargain compared to alternatives like veneers, which may set you back between £500 to £1,000 per tooth.
The Take Home
Ultimately, the decision to opt for dental bonding rests not only in your hands but also in your dentist’s. As such, you should consult them for guidance and alternatives, as they possess the expertise necessary to steer you toward the choice that can safeguard your long-term health, appearance, and financial well-being.
Are you a Surrey resident looking to get a composite bonding procedure? You should check out The Walton Practice. They house the best composite bonding Surrey dental professionals to give you the best oral care for your time and investment.