63-65 Fleece Road, Long Ditton KT6 5JR
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
63-65 Fleece Road, Long Ditton KT6 5JR
Trying to decide between composite bonding and dental fillings but not sure which one’s right for you? You’re not alone!
Both are popular treatment options in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, and while they might seem similar, they have some key differences. Composite bonding is a versatile treatment that can fix both cosmetic issues, like chips and gaps, and small restorations. Fillings, on the other hand, are typically used for one main purpose – repairing cavities and damage caused by decay. In this article, we’ll break down what each option involves, so you know exactly what to expect with each of them and hence make the best decision for your smile! Looking to get composite bonding in Surbiton? Schedule your appointment with us now!
Composite bonding (or dental bonding) is a simple and popular cosmetic dental procedure used to fix minor damage and enhance your smile. It involves applying a tooth-coloured resin to your teeth to cover imperfections in your smile. The best part? It’s a quick and painless way to get your smile looking its best – often in just one visit. If you’re dealing with minor issues and want a fast fix, bonding could be just what you need!
The main goal of composite bonding is to improve the appearance of your smile. It’s perfect for hiding things like stubborn stains, chips, or small cracks that don’t affect the tooth’s function. Whether it’s a discoloured spot or a tiny gap that’s been bothering you, bonding can easily cover it up, leaving your teeth looking natural and polished. It’s more versatile than many people realise, making it an ideal option for those small problem areas.
However, if your tooth is more severely damaged or has decay, you may need a filling or a crown instead to restore its function and structure.
Tooth bonding is a treatment option that can address a range of cosmetic and minor restorative issues. Here’s what it’s commonly used for:
Although bonding can sometimes be used for small cavities, it’s more focused on cosmetic improvements.
Dental bonding is a quick and easy procedure that usually takes just one visit. Your dentist starts by cleaning your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar so the bonding material can adhere properly. Then, they gently roughen the surface of the tooth, making small scratches to help the bonding material stick securely. A bonding agent is applied and cured with UV light to create a strong base. After that, a tooth-coloured composite resin is applied and shaped to match the natural contour of your tooth. The dentist builds up the resin in layers, using UV light between each layer to harden it.
This process continues until the tooth reaches the desired shape and length. The entire procedure is generally pain-free, and anaesthesia is rarely required, making it a comfortable and efficient way to enhance your smile.
Most people are familiar with dental fillings, especially if they’ve had a cavity before. Fillings are one of the most common dental treatments used to fix teeth damaged by decay. But there’s more to them than just filling a hole – fillings play a key role in restoring and strengthening a tooth that’s been weakened. Whether you’re getting an amalgam or a tooth-coloured composite filling, the goal is to protect the tooth and prevent further damage.
The main purpose of dental fillings is to stabilise and restore a tooth’s strength and function after decay. When a cavity forms, the dentist has to remove the damaged enamel and dentin to stop the decay from spreading. This leaves a gap, which weakens the tooth. By placing a filling, the dentist fills this gap and reinforces the tooth, making it strong enough to handle normal chewing and biting forces again. While some fillings, like composite resins, can match the natural colour of your tooth for a seamless look, their primary goal is to restore function rather than focus solely on aesthetics.
The dental filling process is also a straightforward one, usually completed in one visit. First, your dentist identifies the decayed area and removes the damaged tooth material using a drill or specialised tool. This step is essential to ensure that no bacteria remain, preventing further decay. Once the area is cleaned out, the dentist quickly mixes and applies the filling material – whether it’s amalgam or composite resin. Depending on the type of filling, they may use a light to harden and cure it. The procedure is typically painless, as anaesthesia is used, and you can return to your normal eating routine as soon as the numbness wears off.
While both dental bonding and dental fillings aim to repair and enhance teeth, they serve different purposes and have unique characteristics. Dental bonding is primarily a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the appearance of your teeth, while dental fillings are mainly restorative, focusing on fixing cavities and decay. Here’s a breakdown of the major difference between dental boding and filling:
Dental bonding is used to fix cosmetic issues like chips, gaps, and discolouration, as well as minor restorations. Fillings, on the other hand, are specifically used to treat cavities and restore tooth function.
Bonding uses a tooth-coloured composite resin that is applied and shaped to match your tooth. Fillings can be made from composite resin or other materials like amalgam, gold, or porcelain.
Fillings, particularly amalgam ones, are typically more durable than composite bonding, lasting up to 10-15 years or longer with proper care. Composite bonding, while effective, may need to be touched up or replaced every 5-10 years, depending on wear and tear.
Bonding wins in the aesthetics department, as it’s designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, creating a flawless appearance. Composite fillings can also be colour-matched, but other filling materials like amalgam are more noticeable.
Composite bonding can be slightly more expensive than standard fillings, especially if multiple teeth need treatment. However, both options are generally affordable compared to other dental procedures, with costs varying based on the material and extent of the treatment.
Dental bonding is a quick and painless procedure often completed in a single visit without anesthesia.Fillings, while also typically done in one visit, may require anesthesia to numb the area, especially when removing decay before placing the filling.
Deciding between dental bonding and a filling depends on your specific needs. If you’re looking to fix cosmetic issues, composite bonding could be the perfect solution. On the other hand, if you have a cavity or need to restore a tooth’s function, a dental filling might be the better choice. The best way to determine the right option for your smile is to schedule a consultation with us at The Dental Connection. We’ll assess your teeth and guide you to the treatment that suits you best!
Looking for a reliable dentist you can trust with your smile needs? At The Dental Connection, we offer a range of dental treatments, including composite bonding in Surbiton, to keep your smile looking its best. Whether you need cosmetic improvements or restorative care, our expert team is here to provide tailored solutions that meet your needs.