It can sometimes feel overwhelming to decide which option is best for certain dental conditions. You want to find a solution that will last, but you may also have budgetary constraints. Patients also should think about whether they are the right candidate for specific procedures. Composite bonding is just one cosmetic procedure to consider for a misshaped, broken, or cracked tooth – but is it a viable option for your dental issue?

What is Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding is also called “dental bonding” and “composite resin bonding.” It is a treatment procedure that uses bonding material to restore or enhance a tooth’s natural appearance. When you have composite bonding done, your dentist uses a resin that feels like putty to shape the tooth, and then they permanently bond it to your tooth. If cared for correctly, composite bonding will last anywhere from three to ten years.

The Advantages of Composite Bonding

Composite bonding is a clear choice for some due to the many advantages that it provides, including:

• You may not require local anesthesia, which can come with side effects and be more expensive
• It can often be done in just one appointment
• It is less expensive when compared to other treatment options like porcelain veneers
• It requires less removal of your natural tooth than veneers and crowns

The Disadvantages of Composite Bonding

Choosing composite bonding over other restorative treatments does come with some disadvantages, including:

• They generally do not last as long as other viable options
• The material used is more susceptible to staining and discoloration
• The area that it affects may be more prone to damage

So when choosing the right treatment option for you, it is important to weigh the pros and cons against other available options.

Who Can Benefit from Composite Bonding?

There is not always a clear choice when it comes to the best treatment option, but when you weigh the advantages and disadvantages, it comes down to a personal decision. You might be a good candidate for composite bonding if:

• You have a decaying, damaged, or broken tooth
• You want to eliminate gaps in your teeth or smile
• You have an exposed root that needs to be protected

It might not be a good choice if:

• There isn’t enough natural tooth to work with
• You have an improperly aligned bite that needs to be addressed

How to Care for Your Composite Bonding

If you have decided that composite bonding is an appropriate course of treatment, it is critical to follow aftercare instructions to extend the bonding’s lifespan. These aftercare instructions include:

• Using dental floss a minimum of once a day
• Brushing your teeth at least twice a day for a minimum of two minutes with a non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft brush
• Wear a mouthguard if you are prone to grinding or clenching your teeth
• Don’t chew on foreign objects like pens, fingernails, or ice
• Eat a healthy diet and avoid acidic and sugary foods
• Have regular dental exams and cleanings

If you have a tooth that is decayed, cracked, or misshapen, then composite bonding might be a good choice for restoration treatment. It is an inexpensive fix, when compared to veneers, that will have you smiling in just one appointment. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment to discuss cosmetic dentistry options with Dr. Tatum!