Short answer
Composite bonding uses tooth-coloured resin applied directly to a tooth to repair chips, close small gaps or improve shape and colour. It often needs little or no removal of the tooth and is usually done in a single visit. It can wear or stain over time, so care matters.
What is composite bonding?
Composite bonding is a cosmetic treatment in which the dentist applies tooth-coloured resin to the surface of a tooth, shapes it and hardens it with a light.
What can it fix?
- Small chips and cracks.
- Small gaps between teeth.
- Teeth that look short or uneven.
- Some marks and discolouration.
- Small "black triangles" near the gum line, in some cases.
Black triangles are small dark gaps that can appear between teeth near the gum line. Whether bonding can help depends on the cause and the size of the gap. Your dentist can tell you.
The procedure
- Consultation. The dentist discusses what you want and examines your teeth.
- Preparation. The surface may be lightly roughened. Often no numbing is needed.
- Application. The resin is placed and shaped.
- Hardening. A light sets the resin.
- Finishing. The surface is polished and the bite checked.
Aftercare
- Brush and clean between your teeth every day.
- Limit habits that can stain, such as smoking, coffee and red wine.
- Do not bite hard objects or your nails.
- Keep your check-ups so your dentist can polish or repair bonding as needed.
Bonding compared with veneers
Bonding is quicker and usually needs less of the tooth to be removed. Veneers are lab-made, may last longer, and give more dramatic changes. Your dentist can help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
- What is composite bonding?
- Tooth-coloured resin applied and shaped on a tooth to repair or improve its look.
- Can bonding fix black triangles?
- Sometimes, for small gaps. A dentist will check the cause.
- How long does it last?
- It varies with your habits and care. Bonding can chip or stain over time and can be repaired.
- Does it stain?
- It can. Good cleaning and fewer staining habits help.
- Bonding or veneers?
- Bonding is simpler. Veneers are more involved and may last longer. Your dentist can advise.
Next step
To ask about bonding, read about the clinic's composite bonding service or book a visit. Wetaskiwin Smiles is at 3600 56 St Unit 101, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 3T5. Call (780) 396-4040 or request an appointment online.