Is Composite Bonding Right for You?

Composite bonding is used to improve the appearance of teeth. The material used in composite bonding is the same material that is used in composite cavity fillings. It can be made to match the existing tooth color for fillings so that they are virtually unnoticeable. In the case of composite bonding the material may be whiter than your existing tooth color to cover any discoloration. 

Composite bonding is usually considered to be a cosmetic dental procedure because it is most often used to whiten and reshape the teeth to improve their appearance. Composite bonding may not be the right option for everyone, but is it right for you? Learn about the procedure to help you decide. 

As a cosmetic option, composite bonding has many benefits, including:

• Affordable. When compared to other cosmetic options such as veneers and crowns, composite bonding is a much more affordable procedure. The cost per tooth is comparable to a cavity filling. 
• Fast. Composite bonding can be applied in just one appointment, unlike other cosmetic procedures that require preparation, time for materials to be created in a lab and sent back, and then adjustments made. Composite bonding is a same day procedure. 

• Not painful. There is no pain associated with composite bonding. No anesthesia is needed unless there is a cavity that needs to be filled in the process. 

As with any procedure, there are just a few drawbacks, such as:

• Lack of Durability. Composite resin is a type of plastic that is hardened after it is applied. It is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel or porcelain that is used for crowns and veneers. 
• Prone to Discoloration. Composite bonding is not as resistant to stains as porcelain. It is common for composite resin to become discolored over time. 

• Shorter Lifespan. In general, composite bonding does not last as long as porcelain crowns or veneers. The average lifespan is 3 to 7 years, as opposed to a crown that could last up to 40 years. 

If you’re wondering whether or not composite bonding can correct your cosmetic dental issues, here are some of the common problems it can correct.

• Discoloration. If your teeth are stained or discolored beyond what a whitening treatment can correct, composite bonding can help. A layer of composite resin applied to the teeth will whiten them more effectively than bleaching treatments. 
• Worn down teeth. Do you grind your teeth? If your teeth are worn down unevenly from grinding or due to a misaligned bite pattern, composite bonding can be applied to the teeth to even them out or lengthen them. 

• Chipped teeth. If you have a tooth that is chipped, 

• Gaps between teeth. Do you have gaps between your teeth that negatively affect your appearance? Composite bonding can sometimes fill in these gaps to improve your smile. 

• Root protection. When the gums recede it can expose part of the tooth root. Composite bonding can cover that exposed portion of the root to protect it from decay and reduce sensitivity. 

If you’re interested in composite bonding and wondering whether or not it is right for you, set up a consultation with Total Dental Care. We offer a wide range of cosmetic dental services so that you can find the best option for your needs. 

Call 240-813-9111 to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to helping you improve your smile.