What Is Composite Bonding in Cosmetic Dentistry?

Also known as dental bonding, composite bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure for fixing minor damages or gaps in between teeth. The treatment entails adding composite resin to the tooth and shaping it to look natural. The material is customizable to match the appearance of the existing teeth. Read on to find out how composite bonding can improve the appearance of your smile.

Benefits of choosing composite bonding

Composite bonding can be completed in a single visit to the dentist. It is a quick and reliable way to correct minor cosmetic problems. The dentist will harden the composite with UV light after application to make the tooth strong enough to function.

Bonding is also not invasive. Alternatives like crowns and veneers require removing parts of the tooth permanently. To apply composite, the dentist only needs to roughen the tooth surface to aid the bonding process, which means no part of the tooth structure is lost. Composite bonding improves the smile without causing additional damage to the teeth.

Composite bonding is also relatively cheaper than veneers and crowns. With proper oral care and maintenance, the composite bond should survive several years of use.

The process of getting cosmetic bonding

A qualified dentist can tell when composite bonding will be the best solution to fix a tooth. The first step is to schedule an appointment with a dentist for a consultation and oral examination. The dentist will discuss their plans to transform the patient’s smile. If they decide to proceed with cosmetic bonding, then the procedure can start.

The dental professional will carefully etch the affected tooth to make the resin adhere more easily. They may use a local anesthetic to keep the patient comfortable throughout the process. Afterward, the resin will be applied to the tooth and hardened with a unique light-activated tool. The last step is shaping of the tooth and polishing it to achieve a natural luster. Once the procedure is complete, the patient will have a smile they can proudly show off.

Caring for composite bonds

One of the advantages of composite bonding is easy maintenance. The dentist will advise patients to stay off deeply-colored drinks or foods in the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Tobacco products should also be avoided. To keep the smile looking good after the cosmetic procedure, you will need to follow the dentist’s instructions, including:

Brush twice daily. Flossing should be done once a day. The dentist will recommend getting a soft-bristled brush and nonabrasive toothpaste to protect the restoration. Good oral hygiene prevents the accumulation of plaques on the teeth, as well
Reduce intake of colored drinks. Teeth-staining drinks like red wine, tea and coffee can discolor both the composite and natural teeth
Consume a healthy diet. Patients need to eat healthily to provide their body with the nutrients required to keep the teeth strong

In conclusion

For many patients, cosmetic bonding is an easy and affordable cosmetic dentistry option to improve their smile. An appointment with a dentist can help you know if it is the right option for you. Contact us today to set up an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.implantdentalbellevue.com or call Bellevue Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry at (425) 249-9186 for an appointment in our Bellevue office.

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April 1, 2025