It is no secret that dental damage can occur from a variety of causes, such as decay, trauma, and wear and tear. While these issues can be disheartening, there is a way to repair damaged teeth and restore your smile with a procedure known as composite bonding.

Composite bonding is a dental procedure in which a tooth-colored composite resin material is applied to the surface of a damaged tooth in order to repair it. The composite material is applied in layers and then shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth. It is a minimally invasive procedure that can be completed in one visit.

The first step in the composite bonding process is to prepare the tooth by removing any cavities, decay, or damaged areas. The tooth will then be cleaned and dried. An acid solution is then used to etch the surface of the tooth, which helps the bonding material adhere better.

After the tooth is prepared, the composite material is applied in layers. Each layer is cured with a special light, and the dentist will shape and polish the material to match the surrounding teeth. The result is a smooth, natural-looking surface that will last for years.

Composite bonding can be used to repair a variety of dental issues, such as chips, cracks, discolorations, gaps, and misshapen teeth. 

As long as the patient is suitable for this technique, and this requires an examination of your mouth as a whole, including nocturnal habits such as grinding and clenching, lifestyle (smoking) and diet (turmeric, red wine, coffee and tea.), composite bonding is a safe, effective, and affordable way to restore your smile and improve your oral health.

The best part about composite bonding is that it is a reversible procedure. If you decide that you do not like the results, the material can be removed  and replaced with a different material, like porcelain veneers. Digital scanners can give the dentist a 3D model of your teeth and assist with the "Smile Design" process, creating a mock-up that can be applied over your current dentition to show how it would look like after the addition of composite material. It is known as a "prototype" smile and, once you and your dentist are pleased with the results, it can then be used as a reference guide for the final composite application. 

Overall, composite bonding is a great way to repair damaged teeth and restore your smile. If you are dealing with dental damage and want to learn more about this procedure, be sure to talk to your dentist. They can answer any questions you may have and help you decide if it is the right option for you.

Alex Lass