Both veneers and composite bonding aim to solve cosmetic defects, such as cracked, chipped, discoloured, gappy, missing, and uneven teeth.
Composite bonding involves applying a resin material to your existing teeth to improve your smile and conceal the flaws.
In comparison, dental veneers are thin shells that bond to the front surface of your teeth. Although they aim to achieve similar goals, they are vastly different in their materials, appearance, durability, and procedure.
What is composite bonding?
Composite bonding, also called dental bonding, is one of the many dental procedures available to improve the appearance of your teeth. Primarily, this cosmetic bonding uses composite resin material to fix defects such as discolouration, broken teeth, chipped tooth or gaps.
It works by applying resin directly over your front teeth to make your teeth appear whiter and straighter.
The tooth bonding can mimic the natural colour of your teeth to make them appear natural like. The resin material is also quite pliable, making it easier for the dentist to perform the cosmetic bonding procedure to create your desired look.
People looking for smile makeovers should strongly consider composite bonding. However, if you only need minor stain reduction, teeth whitening may be a better solution to try first.
If you have a serious issue such as tooth decay or gum disease, a dental filling may be the right solution instead.
Benefits of composite bonding vs dental veneers
Composite bonding and dental veneers are similar in that they attach to the tooth’s surface and aim to provide the perfect smile. However, there are some benefits that can make composite bonding a more suitable option for some people compared to veneers. You can learn more about dental veneers in our blog: What are Dental Veneers? and What are Composite Veneers?
Composite bonding is much more cost-effective compared to composite and porcelain veneers.
They do not require any trimming of the tooth enamel, unlike veneers.
This procedure only requires a single brief visit for completion, while veneers will require multiple visits. That’s because veneers need to be fabricated in a lab before returning to the dental practice.
Composite bondings can last a long time with good oral hygiene. They can last about ten years or longer.
How is the composite bonding treatment done?
The composite bonding procedure is a straightforward process that can be done in a single visit, requiring approximately 30 to 60 minutes for each tooth. This cosmetic dental treatment is a relatively pain-free process and won’t require a local anaesthetic.
With composite veneers, there won’t be any tooth preparation; this is referred to as ‘no prep veneers‘ that needs to be done on your tooth structure.
- Your cosmetic dentist will help you pick out a colour that best matches the shade of your natural teeth. They will also provide thorough teeth cleaning to prevent the risk of post-procedure infections.
- The dentist will etch your tooth, which provides a rougher texture, allowing the bonding material to stick better.
- A gel or liquid is applied to the roughed tooth. This creates microscopic pores inside the enamel to improve the bonding of the treatment. Your cosmetic dentist will rinse and dry your tooth.
- They will apply the bonding material to the tooth.
- The resin material resembles putty. It is gently applied to the tooth and sculpted to ensure a natural appearance.
- Your dentist will shine a special UV light to harden the bonding agent.
- Final polishing and shaping are performed to give you the perfect new smile.
Overall, bonding is one of the least invasive cosmetic dentistry treatment options available. In contrast, veneers may require some layer of tooth enamel to be trimmed to make space for the veneers.
That’s because the veneers are thin shells that are glued onto the front of your teeth, whereas bonding uses a composite putty-like material.
Aftercare for composite bonding in the UK
Once the composite bonding process is completed, we encourage you to follow these care tips to maintain good oral health and maximise the longevity of the treatment.
- Brush your teeth twice per day.
- Floss daily and use mouthwash.
- Avoid using tobacco products.
- Avoid tooth-staining foods such as chocolate, red wine, soda, and coffee.
- Avoid biting on hard foods.
- Avoid biting on objects.
- Wear a nightguard if you have a habit of teeth grinding when you sleep.
- Visit your dentist regularly for teeth cleanings and check-ups.
Cost of composite bonding vs veneers
Since composite bonding, or dental bonding, is a relatively simpler procedure, they are typically the less expensive option. However, the cost may vary depending on many factors, such as:
- Dentist experience.
- The number of teeth that need treatment.
- Location of the dental clinic.
- The extent of the treatment process.
The cost difference has a lot to do with the materials used. Veneers have greater durability and are much thinner than composite bonding shells.
Thus, with the high translucency, it looks more natural, which leads to the higher cost.
Are you considering composite bonding?
For those who have healthy natural teeth but want to quick and affordable solution to improve the visual appearance of their smile, cosmetic bonding may be an attractive option. This procedure is also fast and painless.
At Bespoke Smile, we aim to give patients their dream smile so they can step out with confidence.
If you’re ready to receive composite bondings or have questions about it, contact us today.