What is composite bonding? If you are searching for answers to this question, you’re in the right place. Dental bonding is a procedure that can greatly improve your smile. It’s a cost-effective procedure if you need minor cosmetic surgery, but it’s not a permanent fix. Dental bonding may need to be repeated over time to keep your smile looking its best.
Supreme Dentistry welcomes Houston residents who are considering dental bonding. We offer a variety of services to give you that bright, beautiful smile. We proudly provide family and general dental services, including dental cleanings, fillings and crowns, extractions, implants, bondings, and more. Our composite bonding services are ideal for chipped or cracked teeth, discolored and irregular teeth, and to remove gaps and spaces in your mouth. Reach out to us today and schedule an appointment with our expert team.
What Is Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that’s used to protect your teeth and gums. It uses resin, a liquid that turns into a solid, to shape and form the tooth so that it matches your existing teeth. During the procedure, the materials bond with your teeth to cover unsightly damage.
What is composite bonding used for? Your dentist will recommend dental bonding if you need to:
- Repair chipped or cracked teeth
- Improve the appearance of discolored teeth
- Close the gaps between teeth
- Change the shape or length of teeth
- Protect exposed roots due to gum recession
Composite bonding is a painless procedure that does not require anesthesia, and you will be in and out in just a couple of hours. It’s less expensive than veneers, and the resin that’s used is tooth-colored, so it looks natural.
Composite Bonding Procedures
Composite bonding is a procedure that can take less than an hour to complete, depending on how many teeth you need covered. Here’s a step-by-step look at the composite bonding procedure:
Consultation and Shape-Matching
During your consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and help you decide if bonding is the best option. They will use a shape guide to select the resin color that closely matches your natural teeth, discuss the procedure with you, and answer any questions you have.
Preparation
Typically, no anesthesia is used in this procedure unless the bonding is being used to fill a decayed tooth. The dentist will clean and roughen the tooth’s surface and apply a conditioning liquid to help the bonding material stick.
Application
The dentist applies the tooth-colored resin in layers, molding and shaping it to the desired look.
Curing
This hardening procedure uses a special blue light, ultraviolet, or laser to harden the resin quickly.
Finishing Touches
After hardening is complete, the dentist will trim, shape, and polish the bonded area until it matches the natural shape of your existing teeth.
The total time to complete composite bonding is between 30 to 60 minutes per tooth.
The Benefits of Composite Bonding
Composite bonding has plenty of benefits when your teeth are damaged. Bonding can address a variety of issues, from chips and cracks to reducing gaps between teeth. It can enhance the appearance of your teeth and reshape uneven edges, make teeth look longer, and improve your overall smile.
Here are some other benefits of composite bonding:
- Boost confidence by fixing cosmetic issues
- Strengthens weakened teeth and protects exposed roots
- It is durable and long-lasting
- The composite material is stain-resistant
- The procedure is quick and painless
Dental bonding is very affordable when compared to other cosmetic procedures, such as veneers and crowns.
How Long Does Composite Bonding Last?
Composite bonding is not a permanent fix. It’s a long-lasting, temporary fix that will need to be replaced after several years. On average, composite bonding will last anywhere from five to seven years. With proper cleaning and excellent oral care, your bonds can potentially last for 10 years or more. Factors that can affect the length of time composite bonding lasts include oral hygiene, dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and the quality of materials and workmanship.
Composite Bonding vs. Veneers: Which Is Better?
If you are deciding between composite bonding and veneers, both options have benefits. Composite bonding is considered a more cost-effective option over veneers, but porcelain veneers are a highly durable, stain-resistant material that can last for 10 to 20 years.
Here are some other comparisons you should consider before making a decision:
- Durability – Composite bonding can last up to 10 years, while veneers can last for up to 20 years.
- Aesthetics – Veneers have a more natural and uniform appearance, while bonding may not match the natural look and feel of your teeth exactly.
- Versatility – Composite bonding is suited for minor imperfections, small chips, cracks, and gaps. Veneers can address a wider range of issues, such as discoloration, large chips, cracks, gaps, and minor alignment problems.
- Maintenance – Veneers are generally easy to maintain and require no special care, while bonding requires regular maintenance, polishing, and repairs.
On average, veneers are more expensive than composite bonding, but the procedure is longer, as veneers are custom-made in a lab before implanting.
Discover Exceptional Dental Bonding in Houston at Supreme Dentistry: Contact Us Today!
At Supreme Dentistry, our composite bonding is fast and affordable and will have you smiling brightly in less than an hour. We offer cosmetic dental services, including composite bonding, dental implants, porcelain veneers, and other essential services. Our spa-like environment will make you feel comfortable and relaxed while we take care of your teeth.
If you are searching for composite bonding near you, Supreme Dentistry is the right choice for all your family dental needs. Please fill out our online contact form or call 844.966.2333 today to schedule a consultation and cleaning.