Is Composite Bonding a Permanent Solution? Insights from our dentists at LCCD
October 26, 2023
Sometimes referred to as cosmetic bonding, composite bonding can revolutionise your existing smile by improving the appearance of minor imperfections.
But is composite bonding a permanent solution?
What is composite bonding?
Composite bonding is a cosmetic procedure that involves applying malleable dental resin to the teeth to produce a brighter, whiter, more even smile.
Once moulded by your dental professional and cured, your new aesthetic teeth should last for around 5 years – but could last considerably longer if cared for correctly.
Is composite bonding right for me?
If you are wondering ‘is teeth whitening permanent?’ you could well be considering composite bonding.
Generally speaking, cosmetic bonding is ideal for patients looking to improve the appearance of:
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Discoloured teeth
- Gaps between teeth
- The shape and size of teeth
Composite bonding is also an excellent choice for patients who are nervous about dentists or more invasive cosmetic procedures, like porcelain veneers, as it requires no downtime and is comparatively quick – without the use of drilling!
Is teeth whitening permanent with composite bonding?
If you are seeking composite bonding to whiten your teeth, it is advised that you have any whitening treatments first.
This is because the composite resin chosen will be matched to your existing tooth colour and it is not possible to whiten the resin once in position.
For this reason, teeth whitening is considered semi-permanent and can be undone by increased consumption of staining foods and drinks, like tea, coffee, red wine, and beetroot. Likewise, composite bonding usually lasts around 5 years – meaning your whitening treatment will need to be repeated in future if you want to keep very white teeth.
What stains composite bonding?
Dental or composite bonding can be stained in two ways so care should be taken by patients after your composite bonding is placed, to ensure the whitening effect lasts for as long as possible.
Surface staining can occur if the composite bonding becomes scratched – which can be evidenced by a newly matte finish. This matte finish contrasts with your natural teeth, which are glossy, making your resin bonding look unnatural.
The good news is that this can be rectified with a thorough polishing – restoring the shining, glossy finish.
Absorbed staining occurs when the bonding resin absorbs staining from the foods or drinks you enjoy.
This can make staining on teeth with composite bonding much more visible compared to your natural teeth – so it is essential to be mindful of what you eat and drink and how well you clean your teeth once your resin bonding is applied.
How often does composite bonding need to be replaced?
Most composite bonding treatments need to be replaced after around 5 years, but it isn’t unheard of for resin bonding to last for up to 10 years before it is too damaged and needs replacing.
You will know if your resin needs replacing because it will begin to:
- Chip
- Lose its shine – giving teeth a matte appearance
- Form stains around the edges or within the resin
At this point, it is worth considering an appointment to replace the composite bonding and renovate your smile once again.
How do dentists go about replacing composite bonding?
As an additive treatment, it is very possible to replace old composite bonding or remove it for a more permanent solution, such as veneers, further down the line.
This process involves removing the ageing resin with a specialist dental device that has a rapidly rotating disk. This removes the material without damaging the teeth underneath and shouldn’t take long to complete.
Once the natural teeth are bare, patients can choose to invest in whitening procedures or simply opt for new composite resin.
During the process, you won’t need any anaesthetics and should find that you can go about your life as normal after your old resin is removed and the new is added – with a much brighter, even smile you’re proud to show off!
Composite bonding in London with LCCD
To achieve a stunning smile that is symmetrical and stain-free, contact The London Centre for Cosmetic Dentistry.
With decades of cosmetic dentistry experience and glowing patient testimonials that attest to our superior patient care and expert range of treatments available, we can help with any general and cosmetic dentistry needs.
To find out more, book a consultation to discuss your options – you can call us on 0207 722 1235 or fill in our easy contact form and we will get back to you as soon as we can.