Your smile is often the first thing people notice about you, and no wonder you try to hide it behind closed lips when you are unhappy with how it looks. According to a survey by Orthodontics Australia, over 55% of Australians feel self-conscious about their teeth, and about 60% believe that a good smile is a source of confidence. Whether your teeth are chipped, cracked, or discoloured, there’s no need to let them hold you back any longer. Fortunately, there are several dental procedures available to help you reclaim your smile by restoring the appearance of your teeth. One such option that may be worth considering is composite resin bonding. But what exactly is resin bonding, and whether it is the right solution for you? Find out here in our blog.
What is Composite Resin Bonding?
Composite resin bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure where your dentist applies a tooth-coloured resin material to the surface of a tooth to alter its shape, cover discolouration and improve its appearance. The composite material is applied in a putty-like consistency and then moulded and sculpted over the tooth to create the desired shape and size. Once the desired shape is achieved, a special light is applied to harden the composite, which is then polished to give it a natural and shiny appearance.
Benefits of Composite Resin Bonding
Composite bonding is a popular cosmetic dental procedure for patients looking to improve the appearance of their teeth without opting for more lengthy or invasive procedures.. Some of the key benefits of composite resin bonding include:
Durability
While composite resin bonding may not be as durable as other restorative dental procedures, such as dental veneers or crowns, it can still last for years with proper care and benefit patients who want to improve their smile but may not be ready to commit to a more invasive, long-term solution. Additionally, if any damage does occur to the bonded teeth, it is typically easier and quicker to repair.
Versatility
Composite resin bonding can address multiple cosmetic dental issues, from minor chips and cracks to more significant discolouration and gaps between teeth. It can also help reshape the teeth or adjust their size and proportions.
Aesthetics
Composite resin bonding can significantly enhance the appearance of teeth, thanks to the tooth-coloured resin that can match the natural tooth colour. It can correct various cosmetic issues, such as chips, cracks, gaps, and discolouration, resulting in a seamless and natural-looking restoration and making you feel more comfortable with your smile.
Cost-Effectiveness
Compared to other cosmetic dental procedures, such as porcelain veneers, composite resin bonding is often a more affordable option to help improve the appearance of your teeth without breaking the bank.
How Does Composite Resin Bonding Work?
After determining that composite resin bonding is the appropriate treatment for your specific dental concerns, your dentist prepares a composite resin to match the colour of your teeth.
The actual procedure starts with the dentist prepping the tooth surface by cleaning and etching it to create a rough surface for the bonding material to stick to. The dentist will then apply a bonding agent to the tooth’s surface, followed by the application of the composite resin material.
The dentist will shape and mould the composite resin material to achieve the desired shape and contour and then harden it using a special light. Once the resin has hardened, the dentist will further refine and polish it to match the shine and texture of your natural teeth. Unlike other complex dental treatments, composite bonding is a relatively simple procedure, and typically takes around 30-60 minutes per tooth, depending on the extent of the bonding required.
After the procedure is complete, you can resume your routine activities. The bonding material is durable and can withstand normal biting and chewing forces, but it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist to ensure the longevity of the bonding.
Who Needs Composite Resin Bonding?
Composite resin bonding may be the right solution for you if:
- you have adequate original tooth structure to support the treatment
- you have minor dental imperfections such as chips, cracks, gaps
- you have discoloured or uneven teeth
- you want to improve the aesthetics of your smile in less time and with a limited budget
- you have tooth decay and cavities
- the root of your tooth is exposed
- you don’t have any significant bite issues or teeth misalignment
While composite bonding offers a range of benefits, it is important to note that it may not be an ideal solution for more significant dental problems, such as severe decay or structural damage. In these cases, our dentists can help recommend other procedures suited to your teeth condition and oral health. As such, it’s best to talk to your dental practitioner so they can assess the condition of your teeth and recommend the best course of action for your specific needs.
Want to Know if Composite Resin Bonding is Right for You?
Book a consultation with our Bayside dentist to determine whether composite resin bonding is the right solution for your dental concerns. At The Dental Family Beaumaris, our compassionate dentists are there to address your concerns and suggest the most appropriate treatment for your oral health needs. Together, they can work with you to create a healthy and more symmetrical smile that you’d never want to hide.
