Frequently Asked Questions

Composite edge bonding and composite veneers are both cosmetic dental procedures used to improve the appearance of teeth. However, they differ in terms of the amount of tooth structure that is involved, the extent of the cosmetic improvement, and  cost.

Composite edge bonding involves adding composite resin material to the edges of the teeth to repair chips, cracks, or discoloration. This procedure typically requires minimal tooth preparation and can be completed in a single office visit. The composite resin is colour-matched to the natural teeth and sculpted into shape to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth. Composite edge bonding is often seen as a more natural looking aesthetic improvement as composite veneers can often have a more matt thicker appearance. 

Composite veneers create a  aesthetically pleasing appearance through covering all of the underlying tooth . This procedure can be used to correct a range of cosmetic issues, including tooth discoloration, gaps between teeth, and misshapen teeth. Composite veneers are typically more expensive than composite edge bonding due to the amount of tooth covered thus material used and the additional time needed to create a custom-fit restoration.

In summary, composite edge bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that can be used to repair minor cosmetic issues, while composite veneers are a more extensive procedure that can be used to address a wider range of cosmetic concerns. The choice between the two procedures will depend on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic goals.

  Here are the general steps involved in the composite bonding/veneer process: 

1. Evaluation: First, your teeth are  evaluated to determine if composite bonding / veneers are the right treatment for you.  We will look at the size and location of the damage or imperfection of the teeth and discuss the desired outcome with you.
2. If you opt to whiten this will be completed before the bonding/veneers are placed. usually whitening is completed 4-6 weeks depending on the shade of colour that is desired. 

On the MinI Smile makeover appointment 

3.  Preparation:  The teeth involved are prepared by cleaning  them thoroughly and roughening the surface with a special gel / solution. called Etch - This helps the bonding material adhere to the tooth.

4. Bonding:  A thin layer of  adhesive is then applied to the prepared tooth surface. Composite resin material is then applied in layers.  Its is then shaped and sculpted  to achieve the desired shape and contour. A special light to harden each layer as it is applied. This stage is called curing. 

5. Finishing: Once the composite has been applied and hardened, Its is further shaped and polished  with various disks  to match the surrounding teeth and achieve the desired result. 

6. Follow-up: After the bonding procedure, Birmingham bonder will schedule a follow-up appointment to check the bonding/veneers and make any necessary adjustments. They will also be given a final finishing polish at this stage. 

Enjoy your new Smile!

The lifespan of composite bonding/veneers can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the bonded teeth, the amount of wear and tear they are subjected to, and the quality of the bonding material used. On average, composite bonding can last anywhere from 3-7 years .

With proper care and maintenance, composite bonding can last longer. 

Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly and keeping avoiding hard or sticky foods to a minimum, can help prolong the lifespan of the composite . Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can also help to identify any issues with the bonding and address them before they become more serious.

Over time, the composite bonding may become discoloured, chipped, or worn down due to normal wear and tear. If this occurs, the bonding material can be repaired or replaced. It is important to note that while composite bonding can provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution, it is not as long-lasting as other restorative options such as dental porcelain crowns or veneers.

Composite bonding and veneers are both cosmetic dental procedures that can help improve the appearance of teeth. While they have some similarities, they also have some differences in terms of their benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of the pros and cons of composite bonding and veneers:

Composite Bonding:

Pros:

• A relatively quick and non-invasive procedure that can be completed in a single visit to the dentist when completed without whitening. 
• Cost-effective compared to other cosmetic dental procedures.
• Can be used to repair chipped, cracked, or discoloured teeth, as well as to close gaps between teeth.
• Can be done without removing  enamel.

Cons:

• Not as durable as veneers and may need to be replaced every few years.
• Not as stain-resistant as veneers and may require more frequent touch-ups or polishing.
• May not be suitable for larger cosmetic changes or for teeth that require significant structural repair.
• Can require more maintenance and care to maintain their appearance.

Composite Veneers:

Pros:

• Can create a dramatic improvement in the appearance of teeth.
• More durable and long-lasting than composite bonding.
• Can be used to correct a wider range of cosmetic issues, including more severe discoloration, misalignment, and gaps.
• somewhat Stain-resistant and easy to maintain with regular dental hygiene.

Cons

• Can be more costly than composite bonding.
• Can fracture 
• can stain 

Overall, both composite bonding and veneers can be effective cosmetic dental procedures, but the choice between the two will depend on  specific needs, goals, and oral health. It's best to consult with a dentist or cosmetic dental therapist such as Birmingham bonder to determine which option is best for you.

The duration of a mini smile makeover can vary depending on the specific procedures involved and the individual needs of the patient. In general, a mini smile makeover may take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks to complete.

If the makeover involves simple procedures such as teeth whitening or minor reshaping of the teeth, it may be completed in a couple visits. However, if more complex procedures such as r orthodontic treatment are needed, the process may take several weeks or even months.

It's important to note that the timeframe for a mini smile makeover will also depend on your  oral health, as any underlying dental issues may need to be addressed before cosmetic procedures can be performed. It's best to consult with Birmingham bonder  to determine the specific procedures needed and the timeline for completing the mini smile makeover.

The choice of Edge bonding or veneers depends upon what you want to achieve for your smile.  Edge bonding is often chosen to provide subtle changes to shape of teeth and colour is chosen to match the current shade of the teeth Pre or post whitening.  whereas Composite 

 It is not necessary to have teeth whitening before composite bonding, but some patients choose to do so to achieve a more aesthetic result.

It is important to understand that composite veneers/bonding do not change shade when whitening therefore if you ever may want to whiten your teeth it would be beneficial and more cost effective to do this before Mini smile makeover 

Teeth whitening can help to remove surface stains and discoloration from the teeth, which can make the bonding material appear brighter and more natural-looking. However, if the discoloration is caused by underlying issues such as decay or damage, these issues will need to be addressed before any cosmetic treatments can be performed.

Birmingham bonder/Jodie or your  dentist  can help determine if teeth whitening is necessary before composite bonding, based on the condition of your teeth and your desired results. They can also recommend the best approach to achieve the desired outcome, whether it includes teeth whitening, composite bonding, or a combination of both.

You should aim to be dentally fit before any cosmetic treatment so ensure you keep up with regular check ups and hygiene visits. 

 Unlike with Porcelain veneers or crowns. Dental  composite moulds to fit so that it won't cause damage to teeth. There's no need to remove any of your natural enamel as done with porcelain veneers or grind your teeth down as done with crowns.  Boding /Veneers are a reversible treatment option, they can be removed professionally with minimal damage  (removal fee applies).