You don’t always need to replace broken or chipped teeth. Composite bonding might just be all you need to restore your smile.
However, many patients come to us wishing they had known more about the process and what to expect before they started.
At Pall Mall Dental Clinic, we’ve seen these concerns time and again. So, in this blog, we will share eleven things you should know before getting composite bonding in Liverpool.
That way, we will be helping you make an informed decision and ensure you enjoy a smooth, satisfying experience.
First, What’s Composite Bonding and How Does it Work?
Composite bonding or tooth bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure used to repair chips, cracks, gaps, and other minor imperfections in your teeth.
It involves applying a tooth-coloured resin material to the affected areas, which is then shaped and polished to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
This minimally invasive treatment can significantly improve the appearance of your smile in just one visit. And this is what makes it a popular choice for many patients.
The treatment process begins with your dentist selecting a resin colour that matches your teeth. The resin is then applied, moulded, and hardened using a special light. Finally, the bonded area is polished to match the sheen of your surrounding teeth.
Composite bonding is quick, painless, and typically doesn’t require anaesthesia. If you’re considering this treatment, contact us now for more information and to schedule a free consultation.
Things Many Wish They Had Known Before Getting Composite Bonding in Liverpool
#1: Not Everyone Can Have Composite Bonding
This is a fact that not everyone knows about. Even though composite bonding is great for a variety of dental issues, it is still not an option for everyone.
For instance, there are some habits and diseases that could limit your chance of getting composite veneers. Such habits include clenching, biting nails and grinding the teeth which might result in cracked veneers.
Also, your teeth need to be healthy before you can consider composite bonding. For serious cracks and chips that can compromise the integrity and strength of the tooth, we might recommend you go for dental crowns instead. Crowns will give more support to the tooth and prevent future cracking and damage.
#2: Bonding Can Be Irreversible
Yes, bonding can be irreversible. Although the procedure is minimally invasive, it often requires some removal of the tooth’s enamel to ensure the resin adheres properly.
Once enamel is removed, it doesn’t grow back, which means that if you decide to alter or remove the bonding in the future, additional dental work may be necessary.
So when going for dental bonding, you should prepare your mind and understand the long-term commitment involved with the treatment.
#3: It Is Not Painful
Many people avoid bonding because they fear it will be a painful procedure. However, the reality is quite different.
Composite bonding is generally painless and doesn’t require anaesthesia in most cases. Unlike porcelain veneers, tooth bonding doesn’t require the teeth to be drilled and only on rare occasions, it may require the tooth to be trimmed.
You might feel a slight discomfort or pressure, but it is minimal and temporary. So, you don’t have to feel anxious at all; you’re not going to feel an ounce single pain during the process.
#4: You Will Still Need a Replacement in the Future
While composite veneers are a durable and effective solution for improving your smile, it’s not a permanent fix. Over time, the bonded material can wear down, chip, or discolour, especially if you consume staining foods and drinks or have habits like teeth grinding.
Typically, composite bonding lasts between 5 to 10 years, depending on your oral hygiene and lifestyle. That means you need to understand that you will likely need to have the bonding touched up or replaced in the future to maintain the appearance and health of your teeth.
However, there are some practices you can employ to prolong the shelf-life of your bonded teeth. In the latter part of this post, we will talk more about that. You can also check out ‘How Long Does Composite Bonding Last?’ to learn more about this.
#5: It is not as hard as natural teeth
This is another important thing you should know before getting composite binding in Liverpool. Composite resin is not as strong as natural tooth enamel. That means when you eventually get your treatment, you will need to avoid biting down on hard items like nutshells, plastic, and ice.
Doing that may cause your bonding to crack or even fall out entirely. If you are fond of grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, you might need to get a mouth guard to help protect your dental bond from splitting away due to the excessive pressure generated by the habit.
#6: It Will Mean a Slow Bye-Bye to Coffee
If you’re a coffee lover, you might want to rethink your habits after getting composite bonding. That is because the material used in bonding can be prone to staining, much like your natural teeth, but often more quickly.
Regular consumption of coffee, as well as other staining foods and drinks like tea, red wine, and certain sauces, can cause your bonded teeth to discolour over time. This will make them different from your other teeth.
While occasional indulgence is fine, reducing your intake of these beverages can help maintain the appearance of your composite bonding. It’s a small sacrifice to keep your smile bright and beautiful for as long as possible.
#7: You Will Spend Extra Time on Dental Routine
Composite bonding requires a bit more attention in your daily dental routine. To keep your bonded teeth looking their best and to prevent staining and damage, you’ll need to be diligent with your oral hygiene.
This means brushing at least twice a day with a non-abrasive toothpaste, flossing daily, and possibly using a mouthwash recommended by your dentist.
Additionally, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are crucial to monitor the condition of your bonding and address any issues early.
#8: Bonded Teeth Cannot Be Whitened
This might shock you too; bonded teeth cannot be whitened with traditional teeth whitening treatments.
The resin material used in bonding does not respond to whitening agents the same way natural tooth enamel does. This means that if your bonded teeth become stained or discoloured over time, they will need to be replaced or touched up to restore their appearance.
That means before deciding on getting dental bonding in Liverpool, you need to be ready to be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and avoid foods and drinks that can cause staining.
Other Things You Need to Know About Composite Bonding
#9: It Is Not as Expensive
One of the advantages of composite bonding is that it is relatively affordable compared to other cosmetic dental procedures like veneers or crowns.
This makes it an accessible option for many people looking to improve their smile without breaking the bank. The cost can vary depending on the extent of the work needed, but overall, composite bonding offers a cost-effective solution for enhancing your teeth’s appearance.
You can contact us to learn more about composite bonding prices and also about how various finance options for our Liverpool patients.
#10: Composite Bonding Is Great for a Variety of Dental Cases
This treatment is incredibly versatile and can address a wide range of dental issues. Whether you have chipped, cracked, or discoloured teeth, gaps between your teeth, or minor alignment issues, bonding can help.
The resin material can be shaped and polished to match your natural teeth perfectly, providing a seamless and natural look. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking cosmetic improvements for various dental concerns.
#11: It Is a Common Procedure Among Celebrities
Composite bonding is not just for everyday people; it’s also a popular choice among celebrities looking to perfect their smiles.
Many stars opt for this treatment because it delivers fast, impressive results without the need for invasive procedures. The ability to quickly and effectively enhance the appearance of their teeth makes it an attractive option for those in the spotlight.
Now that you know that your favourite celebrities trust this procedure, that should give you a little more confidence in its effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.
Tips for Taking Care of Your Bonded Teeth
Taking care of your bonded teeth is essential to maintain their appearance and longevity. You can get to enjoy that beautiful smile for a longer time, if you’re ready to put in the work. Here are some tips to help:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth. This will help you prevent staining and decay around the bonded areas.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Like we said already, you will also need to limit your consumption of staining foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and certain sauces.
If you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward to reduce the risk of stains. You can also consider using a straw for beverages to minimise contact with your bonded teeth.
Be Mindful of Hard Foods
Avoid biting down on hard foods and objects, such as ice, nuts, or pens, which can chip or damage the composite material. You will want to treat your bonded teeth with care to ensure they remain intact and looking their best.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Of course, regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and professional cleanings is important. Your dentist can monitor the condition of your bonded teeth and address any issues early.
At the same time, professional cleanings will help keep your teeth and bonding free from plaque and tartar build-up.
Use a Mouthguard
If you grind your teeth at night, consider using a mouthguard to protect your bonded teeth from damage. Grinding can wear down the composite material, so taking preventive measures is essential.
Where Can You Get Composite Bonding in Liverpool?
If you are looking to enhance your smile with composite bonding in Liverpool, let us help!
At Pall Mall Dental Clinic, we specialise in providing high-quality composite bonding treatments in Liverpool. We have experienced team of dentists who are dedicated to helping you achieve a beautiful, natural-looking smile with personalised care and attention.
So, why wait any longer to transform your smile? Schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a more confident you.
Call us now on 01512581968 to book your consultation!