Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, so it's no surprise that near-invisible braces, teeth-whitening gels and now - composite bonding - are officially trending. Composite bonding is a no-brainer for anyone looking for a perfect smile on a budget as it’s far more affordable than a set of new veneers and is hailed for its natural-yet-uniform results. But if you’re new here and wondering what exactly composite bonding is, we spoke to Dr Imran Sayed, Clinical Director and Partner at Chelsea & Fulham Dentist who vowed to answer all your burning questions...
What is composite bonding and how does it work?
"Composite bonding is a dental treatment where tooth-coloured resin filling is applied to improve the shape and appearance of teeth. It's great for fixing chips, gaps, or uneven teeth to give you a more harmonious smile. The process is quick, effective, and minimally invasive."
What is the process like?
"The process starts with a consultation where we’ll discuss your goals and assess your smile using digital photography and scans to help. Often no drilling or anaesthesia is required for the treatment. The resin is carefully shaped and bonded to your teeth, then hardened with a special light. We’ll then polish the resin for a natural finish."
Is there any discomfort or downtime associated with composite bonding?
"Nope! Composite bonding is generally painless, there is no downtime and you can walk out the door and show off your new smile immediately. This is exactly why composite bonding has gained in popularity over recent years!"
What should patients do to prepare for a composite bonding appointment?
"You must ensure your teeth are clean before your appointment. Discuss your expectations using photos or examples to ensure everyone understands your aesthetic goals. Before bonding, avoid items like coffee or red wine to maintain a clean surface. If you want your teeth to be whitened, this also needs to be completed before cosmetic bonding treatment."
What are the best ways to care for composite bonding to ensure it lasts?
"Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing daily will help maintain your new, healthy smile. Avoid staining foods as the resin can pick these up more easily, so limit tea, coffee, and red wine. Avoid biting down on hard foods and objects to prevent chipping. Regular professional cleaning and dental reviews will keep your bonding pristine and help it last. Often retainers will also be advised to help protect your new smile."
Find out more about composite bonding or book a consultation at Chelsea & Fulham Dentist, here.
Aimee Jakes is Closer’s trending content editor. As well as writing about skincare launches, high-street fashion and gym bag essentials, she’s forever chatting to celebs about their fancy beauty routines. Follow her on Instagram here.