Because direct composite bonding involves the precise placement of restorative material by your Summertown Dental & Implants, the direct composite bonding procedure usually is completed in only one dental visit. More complicated or extensive treatments may require additional visits. However, there is usually no need for temporaries or waiting days or weeks for laboratory restorations.

Whether your treatment plan calls for direct composite restorations or adhesively bonded restorations, dentists start the process by using a rubber dam to isolate the teeth, to prevent interference from moisture. Depending on the extent of the treatment, anaesthetic injections may be required.

Your dentist will apply a gentle phosphoric acid solution to the surface of the natural tooth, which won’t hurt. Similar to how roughing up a surface with sandpaper can help paint adhere to it better, acid etching of the tooth surface strengthens the bond of the composite and the adhesive. After 15 seconds the phosphoric acid is removed, and a liquid bonding agent is applied.

Composite bonding restorations offer our patients a healthy and beautiful smile that should last for many years. It’s important to follow our recommendations for proper Oral hygiene and avoid habits that could damage your restorations. Brush at least twice a day, floss once a day and schedule regular visits to your dentist and hygienist for routine examinations and cleanings. Avoid biting your fingernails and chewing on pens, ice or other hard objects as this can lead to chipping of the composite bonding materials. We also recommend contacting the practice if you notice any sharp edges on the bonded tooth or teeth, or if the tooth feels differently when you bite down.

The procedure often accompanies other dental work but is considered a less expensive cosmetic dental treatment than veneers and crowns. We recommend you contact our practice to arrange an initial consultation where we can give you an accurate cost for composite bonding. At Summertown Dental & Implants in Oxford we’re proud to be able to offer highly competitive prices for all our dental work. Please review our fees and patient finance pages for more details.