Typically, the tooth surface is initially cleaned and polished. Any existing visible fillings may have to be removed or reduced. After polishing, a gel is applied to the enamel before the dental bond (glue) is placed. This bond is set using a strong blue light, before the composite material is built onto the tooth enamel, often in layers with each layer being set individually with the light.

In most cases, composite is applied with no obvious drilling to the natural tooth enamel. In some cases where there are existing large tooth position problems, then the option of some tooth adjustment will be discussed with you at your consultation if it will result in an improved final alignment. For cases that require tooth adjustment, you will be advised beforehand and any alternative solutions (braces) will be offered as an option.

The great majority of cases are carried out pain-free and without the need for local anaesthetic. Exceptions to this are when we are combining treatment with some filling replacements, or situations requiring gum-contouring.

As with any changes to the teeth, the composite bonding/ veneers will feel new and you may feel aware of the surfaces for a few days. During this period, you should take extra care on biting until you are used to chewing with your new smile. The composite resin is fully hardened instantly on placement, and no particular extra care needs to be taken in this respect. You should be able to eat, drink, brush and floss with confidence on the same day!

We usually request that you arrange a follow-up, polish and adjustment appointment within the next month or two after you have your composite bonding placed. This will allow us to confirm you have had no difficulties, and will also allow us to advise you on any ongoing home care. At this appointment, there may be small adjustments requested or required, before a final polish is carried out.You should brush and floss your teeth as normal on the same day, and at least twice daily. Care should be taken to ensure the edges at the gum line are cleaned well to prevent any staining or gum irritation. . We recommend brushing with a good electric toothbrush (e.g. Braun Oral B or Philips Sonicare), together with a main brand fluoride toothpaste.If you have been advised and provided with a night-time protector against tooth grinding, this should be routinely worn and should be brought with you at any subsequent appointments to allow us to review any potential problems.Many cases may be provided with a ‘retainer’ after treatment. This is a very thin, clear plastic night-time appliance worn to prevent any movement of your underlying natural teeth. If not regularly worn, your composite bonding treated teeth would apparently move out of alignment. The retainer will also help prevent damage caused by sleep tooth grinding. It is usual to need a new retainer every couple of years.

Although composite cannot actually be whitened, stain reduction is improved with careful daily cleaning and occasional use of dental whitening products. All whitening results WILL NATURALLY FADE, and occasional whitening top-ups may be required using home use products.Any tooth whitening products MUST BE AVOIDED on teeth that are to be bonded FOR AT LEAST 21 DAYS leading up to your veneer placement, as the whitening products may affect the strength of the bond. This would result in the early failure of the veneer.

As with any cosmetic dental procedure, composite bonding/veneers will not last forever, and will eventually need replacing. Reasons for replacing may include chipping, colour fade, natural underlying tooth movement, or composite bonding/veneer loss. Composite bonding removal must be carried out carefully and using magnification to prevent any damage to the natural enamel. Further composite bonding/veneers may then be placed, or other treatment choices sought at that stage.Early replacement risk factors include tooth grinding, accidental damage, poor daily hygiene routines or tooth movement due to the retainer not being worn.Typically, we see good results of up to 5 years, dependent upon care. We recommend a professional composite polish maintenance appointment for your composite bonding once or twice a year. Any problems encountered during the life of the bonding/veneers should be brought to our attention as soon as is practical, to allow advice and necessary action to resolve the issue.

-NO TREATMENT-

Although an unusual ‘option’, you may choose not to go ahead with any treatment choice. You can always contact me at a later date if you wish to reconsider your options.

-PORCELAIN VENEERS-

Porcelain can be used in a similar fashion to composite. Modern techniques rarely need to heavily adjust the teeth to ‘stumps’, as many people are worried about. Sometimes, NO-PREPARATION porcelain veneers can be carried out. Porcelain provides a stronger, more stain-resistant surface which will tend to survive 10-15 years. Although usually more expensive, porcelain is often the cheaper long-term solution for larger smile makeovers.

-ORTHODONTIC BRACES-

Braces have improved enormously in recent years, and often treatment is completed in just a few weeks. Ultra-cosmetic systems are now available. Braces are used to correct tooth position problems and will be discussed as an option at your consultation if appropriate.