Composite Bonding

The composites themselves are done in one appointment. We will always book a consultation appointment first. Most people will have a review appointment after to ensure they are completely happy.

The great majority of all cases are completed pain-free and without the need for local anaesthetic.

In most cases composite is applied with no obvious drilling to the natural tooth. For cases that require tooth adjustment, you will be advised beforehand in the consultation appointment.

There is no minimum recommendation for this. In order to gain optimal aesthetic results most individuals require approximately 8-10 composite restorations. This allows for a more uniform and symmetrical smile.

Composite bonding is a single session treatment option which is great to correct smaller imperfections, chips, cracks and minor spacing between the teeth.

Porcelain veneers on the other hand are lab made ultra thin sheets of ceramic material which are shaped to fit onto the teeth. They usually require some removal of natural tooth structure to create enough space for the veneer to attach to the tooth. They are normally recommended for larger imperfections of the teeth and as they are lab made, are more costly than composite bonding.

For a side-by-side comparison, read composite bonding vs porcelain veneers.

We would always recommend straightening before the bonding as it helps. Slight minor misalignment can be masked with composite. However it is always advisable to straighten with braces or Invisalign first.

Composite bonding typically lasts between 5 and 7 years. How long yours lasts depends on your habits and how you care for it, and a yearly clean and refresh keeps it looking its best.

Bonding is minimally invasive. Composite is added to the surface of your tooth, and little to no natural enamel is removed, so your own tooth is preserved.

Yes. Because little or none of your natural tooth is taken away, bonding is reversible. Your dentist can remove or refine it later if you would like to change your smile or move to another treatment.

Composite can pick up stains over time more easily than porcelain. Limiting red wine, coffee and turmeric, and keeping up regular hygiene visits, helps keep your smile bright.

We recommend a composite bonding clean and refresh at least once a year to restore its shine. It is from £199 with a hygienist, or £299 with a dentist. For a full breakdown, read our guide to composite bonding cost.

Brush and floss as normal, keep up your hygiene appointments, and avoid using your teeth to bite hard objects. Your yearly clean and refresh keeps your bonding smooth and lustrous.