Did you know that over 90% of UK adults have at least one tooth filling? Most of these fillings are bonded composite restorations. Composite fillings are not only an excellent option for restoring damaged teeth, but also for treating various cosmetic dental problems. If you chipped, crooked, or stained teeth that affect your self-confidence and smile, you are a candidate for composite bonding for teeth.
But what is composite bonding and how can I benefit from it? You may ask! This blog contains the answers to all your teeth bonding-related questions. So, read till the end to learn everything you need to know about restoring damaged teeth with dental bonding.
What Is Teeth Bonding, And How Does It Work?
According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, bonding is a procedure in which your dentist will replace damaged or aesthetically compromised teeth using a tooth-coloured, resin-based composite filling material. Composite resin bonding is one of the most commonly performed restorative procedures worldwide.
What Happens During Composite Bonding?
Composite bonding is a straightforward procedure that requires 30 – 45 minutes to complete, per tooth. First, your dentist will remove the decayed tooth structure. Afterwards, they will wash and dry the tooth, followed by the application of a mild etchant over the prepared tooth surface. The purpose of the etchant is to create microporosities on the tooth surface that promote infiltration of the resin filling into the tooth structure and promote bonding. Your dentist will wash away the etchant after 30 seconds.
Next, your dentist will apply the bonding agent over the prepared tooth surface in small increments. After shaping each increment, they will harden it using a special light. Once the entire tooth has been restored, your dentist will polish the surface to maximise the aesthetics and prevent future chances of plaque accumulation.
Can Dental Bonding Fix Multiple Teeth Gaps Together?
Did you know that composite bonding can also be used to treat mild to moderate teeth gaps? Yes, it is possible with bonding. However, it should be remembered that bonding only masks the aesthetic problem created by the teeth gaps or overcrowding. It will not address the underlying issue. If someone does not want to wait for 1 – 1.5 years to get their teeth straightened with braces, they may get them straightened instantaneously using cosmetic dentistry.
How Long Will Front Teeth Bonding Last?
Modern composite bonding resins are quite durable. According to Healthline, composite restorations may require replacement after every 5 – 10 years. However, you can significantly prolong the life of your composite fillings. How? by ensuring optimal oral health, eating a tooth-friendly diet, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups. Moreover, you can prevent the staining of your composite fillings by eating a fibre-rich diet that helps keep the teeth clean and stain-free.
Can Dental Bonding Be Added To The Back Of The Front Teeth?
Your dentist can apply dental bonding to any surface of your front or back teeth. One of the best things about dental bonding is that it can bond directly to the tooth structure. So, no matter how small the defect is, it can be restored with composite bonding – regardless of whether it is the back or front surface of the front teeth.
Can You Eat After You Get Your Teeth Bonded?
It is advisable to wait 1 -2 hours before eating anything after a dental bonding procedure. Although the bulk of the composite resin material has already hardened during the procedure, the polymerisation reaction may continue for some time. Therefore, one should avoid biting on anything directly with the restored tooth immediately afterwards. Even after the filling has completely hardened, one must avoid eating hard or sticky foods with the bonded tooth. This is because it can result in the dislodgement of the restoration.
Can I Get Dental Bonding Instead Of Braces?
It may be possible to cosmetically fix mild to moderate orthodontic issues with bonding, without wearing braces. For example, if someone has mild to moderate tooth crowding or spacing, they can get their teeth gaps cosmetically restored with composite fillings. However, bonding will only address the aesthetic concern, and not fix the underlying misalignment issue.
Does Tooth Bonding Have An Age Limit?
When it comes to composite bonding, there is no age limit! As long as you have permanent teeth, you can get them restored with composite resins. Your dentist will suggest the best treatment option for you – whether you need composite fillings, veneers, or crowns for restoring your teeth – after a thorough clinical examination.
How To Maintain The Bonding In My Teeth?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, bonded restorations can last for up to 10 years if they are looked after properly. Here are a few things you should consider if you want to prolong the life of your composite fillings:
- Oral Hygiene Maintenance – don’t forget to brush and floss regularly. This will help prevent the staining of your fillings and the formation of tooth decay around the margins of composite bonding
- Tooth-friendly Diet – eating and tooth-friendly diet helps prevent plaque and tartar formation, minimising the risk of secondary tooth decay and staining
- Regular Dental Visits – regular dental checkups help in the timely diagnosis of any problems related to your bonded fillings, before they cause permanent damage.
If you are looking for the best dental practice in Liverpool for Composite fillings, your best option is Azure Dental Clinic. We take pride in having the best dental team in town. We will make sure that you enjoy the best aesthetic and restorative outcome from your cosmetic bonding treatment. So, request a free virtual consultation and let us take care of the rest!