If you have worn, chipped, or blemished teeth, all of which can make you feel self-conscious, a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure like composite bonding is a great option to get your beautiful and confident smile back.

How does it work?

Composite bonding is a dental procedure where we expertly apply tooth-coloured composite resin onto the surface of one or more of your teeth to:

• change their shape

• close gaps

• fix imperfections and

• make them look whiter and brighter

… And all at the same time too.

The beauty of the procedure is that very often, little or no drilling of your teeth is needed, and so an injection is rarely required.

Advantages of composite bonding

• As stated above, because there’s little or no drilling, it is minimally invasive and so more conservative than traditional veneers

• Often you can have the whole smile makeover completed in just one appointment

• It is more affordable compared to porcelain veneers.

• It is pain-free, and so needles and local anaesthetics aren’t always needed

• Chips and breaks in the composite material can usually be repaired relatively easily

Downsides of composite bonding

• Composite resin isn’t as strong as your natural teeth and can chip or de-bond from the tooth surface.

• The material isn’t as stain-resistant as other materials. So regular professional polishing from a hygienist is recommended, especially if you smoke or drink a lot of red wine, and coffee etc.

How long does composite bonding it last?

Composite bonding can last between 3-5 years before minor intervention is needed; however, this often depends on how well you look after your teeth. It can last a lot longer, up to 10 years, but it is worth factoring in the possibility of intervention between 5 to 10 years. Good home care (daily flossing and brushing), cutting back on staining foods and drinks (such as red wine, coffee etc.),  and smoking cessation, as well as regular hygiene and cosmetic polishing, can prevent them from deteriorating prematurely.

Still, the good thing about composite resin is that it is easy to repair in the event of any chips or breaks.

Is all composite bonding all the same?

Composite bonding is very technique sensitive and is very much dependant on the skill of the dentist. At Dove, composite bonding forms part of a complete smile makeover which starts with a 3-D scan of your teeth and full-face photographs to design a digital smile. The smile design helps our patients visualise their smile and fully recognise their desired appearance. This allows us to assess how the smile would look with the rest of your face, and we can make any adjustments necessary to design your perfect smile before even touching your teeth.

Am I suitable?

Most patients are suitable for this type of procedure. Sometimes, we may suggest orthodontic treatment such as Invisalign to straighten out the most out of place teeth before composite bonding as we want the best result for you. 

How much does composite bonding cost?

Prices at Dove start from £180 per tooth