Composite bonding (or composite veneers) involves applying tooth-coloured resin to a tooth to alter its shape or colour. It is a cosmetic procedure and carries risks — your dentist will assess whether it may be an option for you.
The Treatment
Composite resin bonding is a form of cosmetic dentistry that involves applying tooth-coloured resin (the same material used for fillings) onto a tooth to alter its shape or colour.
The resin is shaped by hand by your dentist during the appointment. We use digital scanning and design technology as the basis for our 3D smile design process, which is used to plan the proposed shape before treatment begins.
Once shaped and set in place, the resin is polished to sit against the surrounding teeth. How closely it blends varies between patients and depends on your existing tooth shade, shape and bite.
How it works
Composite bonding is usually carried out across two appointments, planned using our 3D smile design process.
We sit down and become familiar with your goals, facial structure and dental history. We also take records in the form of photos, videos and digital scans as a basis to begin planning the proposed shape of the teeth being treated. For most cases we use 3D smile design technology to prepare a proposed design from these scans and photos; this design is then 3D printed and used as a guide or "blueprint" and can be fine-tuned on the day. Some cases may not require this 3D smile design if the changes being made are quite minor. If you live interstate or far away, online virtual consults are available for initial discussions, though in most cases an in-person consultation will be required for digital scans and photos.
The actual bonding process occurs during a single visit. We select shades of resin against your existing teeth so the material can be blended with them as closely as the case allows. Often a review appointment is required where we discuss the appearance of the bonded teeth with you, check your bite, and carry out any further polishing or adjustment if necessary.
Why composite bonding
Composite resin bonding is a versatile treatment that can help address a range of concerns, including:
Aftercare
To keep your composite resin bonding in good condition, you should:
Risks & limitations
Composite resin bonding is a cosmetic procedure and it carries risks. Resin can stain and lose its surface lustre over time, particularly with coffee, tea, red wine or smoking. It can chip or debond, and it will require repolishing, repair or replacement at some point — composite is less durable than porcelain. Composite does not lighten with whitening, so bonded teeth may no longer match if your natural teeth are whitened later.
The tooth surface is lightly etched before the resin is applied, and in some cases a small amount of tooth structure is prepared, which cannot be reversed. Some people experience temporary sensitivity after treatment, and adjustment of the bite may be required. Bonding is not suitable in every case, and results vary from person to person and are not guaranteed.
Your dentist will examine you and talk through the risks, the likely lifespan, the maintenance involved, the costs and the alternatives — including leaving the teeth as they are — before any treatment goes ahead. Further information about treatment risks is set out in our treatment disclaimer.
Good to know
The price of composite bonding will vary between patients depending on the extent of treatment required, but on average it can cost $350 to $600 per tooth. To get an accurate quote specific to your unique needs, feel welcome to book a free, no-obligation cosmetic consultation with one of our dentists to discuss your options. Offer terms apply.
On average, with proper maintenance, composite bonding can last up to 5 years. It's important to note that composite veneers aren't quite as durable as porcelain veneers, and are more susceptible to chipping and staining. It's essential to continue your regular scheduled maintenance with your dentist, as bonding can lose its shine and lustre over time, but with maintenance and polishing you can expect a longer life from your bonding.
Composite bonding is a minimally invasive treatment where the surface of the tooth is lightly etched to prepare for the application of resin. This means alteration of the natural tooth is minimal in most cases. In some specific circumstances there may need to be a mild preparation of tooth structure, but if this is required we will discuss it with you.
Generally speaking, composite resin does not respond to whitening in the same way your regular teeth do, due to its non-porous structure. To keep your composite veneers looking their brightest, minimise the amount of staining foods and beverages you're consuming, or alternatively you can replace your bonding with a whiter shade if necessary.
Real results
About these photographs. These are unretouched before-and-after photographs of individual Helix Dental patients, published with each patient’s authorisation. Results vary from person to person and are not guaranteed — the outcome shown may not be typical or achievable for you. Porcelain veneers and composite bonding involve altering tooth structure; veneer preparation is irreversible and carries risks including sensitivity, chipping, debonding and future replacement. A clinical assessment is required to determine whether any treatment is suitable for you.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
If you'd like to find out more about composite resin bonding with our Gold Coast dentists, please get in touch on 07 5572 8969 or email hello@helixdental.com.au.
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