An expert's guide to: Dental Bonding

In her latest online article, Dr Anna Andrysiewicz gives us her expert insight to dental bonding. She explains how it can be used to fix chipped teeth, what the procedure requires, how long it lasts, if it can close small gaps and if there are any special instructions needed after treatment.

Can dental bonding be used to fix a chipped tooth?

Dental bonding can be used to fix chipped teeth. This is a very popular technique for improving the appearance of chipped teeth.

It involves applying tooth coloured composite resin to the teeth and then shaping and polishing it to match the natural teeth. This can be used to fix chipped teeth, fillings, close gaps between teeth or for fixing discolouration.

However, for more complex cases, other treatments like crowns or veneers may be recommended by your dentist.

Does dental bonding require any anaesthesia or numbing?

Composite bonding doesn’t usually involve the removal of any tooth structure or drilling and there is no need for an anaesthetic injection. Adding composite filling material is pain-free and can be done in one visit.

However, if you have particularly sensitive teeth, you may prefer to have your teeth numbed first. Some patients prefer this as water and air used in the technique can sometimes be cold.

It is best to discuss any concerns you have with your dentist before treatment.

How long does the bonding material typically last before it needs to be replaced?

Composite bonding can last around 5-7 years, depending on several factors such as:

• oral hygiene
• habits
• diet
• bite forces
• location in the mouth

However, chipping, wear and staining can happen any time.

Regular polishing of the bonding is recommended as well as avoiding biting on hard objects and bad habits like nail-biting.

Also, a night guard or retainer might be recommended to protect restorations from damage, especially if the patient is grinding or clenching teeth.

Can dental bonding be used to close small gaps between teeth?

Small gaps between the teeth can be filled by using tooth coloured composite bonding to close the localised spaces.

This is a relatively simple, long lasting and non-invasive procedure and can produce excellent results.

However, for more complex issues and bigger gaps, other options like braces or veneers might be considered.

Are there any special care instructions or restrictions after getting dental bonding?

There are some instructions and restrictions that can help to extend the longevity of composite bonding:

1.Avoiding food and drinks that may stain your teeth, especially for the first 48 hours. Smoking cigarettes and using chewing tobacco is also likely to stain both your bonding and your natural teeth and should be avoided.

2.Avoiding bad habits such as biting your fingernails, tops of pen lids and other hard objects, as they can chip teeth or damage composite bonding.

3.Regular brushing and flossing as well as keeping regular appointments with your dentist and hygienist.

4.Drink lots of water. It will help to remove any leftover food debris and stabilise your mouth’s acidity levels, therefore keeping your teeth clean.

5.Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching the bonding material’s surface.

6.Consider a night guard or retainer to protect restorations.

Dr Anna Andrysiewicz is a highly regarded cosmetic dentist with over 20 years of experience. You can book an appointment with Dr Andrysiewicz today on her Top Doctors profile.