What is composite bonding?
Bonding involves shaping an aesthetic composite directly on the tooth, in the mouth, to correct a localised defect: a chipped edge, a gap between two teeth (a diastema), a tooth that is too short, a slight asymmetry. The material is placed in layers — this is called layering — playing with shades and translucency, then polished to a shine close to that of enamel.
A conservative treatment
In principle, the tooth is not cut: the composite is bonded to the enamel after surface etching. The result can be touched up, repolished and removed if you change your mind, which makes bonding more flexible than a veneer or a crown. It is well suited to micro-corrections and to finishing work after aligner treatment, when a worn edge or a tooth shorter than its neighbour remains.
How the session goes
The shade is chosen in daylight, before the tooth dries out. The surface is cleaned and etched, then the composite is applied layer by layer and hardened with a curing light. Finally comes the shaping and polishing, which takes up a good part of the appointment: this is what gives the shine. Allow thirty to sixty minutes per tooth. One to two sessions are enough in most cases, and most bondings are placed without anaesthetic.
Before starting
Bonding is placed on a healthy tooth and healthy gum: a cavity, inflammation or overdue scaling is treated first. If you clench or grind your teeth, the composite wears faster — a protective splint is then discussed with you. Prices depend on the number of teeth and the time in the chair; a detailed quote is given to you before treatment, and the scale applied is on the page Prices.
Frequently asked questions
How long does composite bonding last?
Depending on its location, eating habits and tobacco, bonding generally lasts five to eight years. The composite can then be repolished or reworked without redoing all the work.
Does the tooth have to be cut?
In principle, no. The composite is bonded to the enamel after a simple surface etching. This is what makes the treatment conservative and, in most cases, reversible.
Bonding or veneer: which to choose?
Bonding is done directly in the mouth, in a single session, and corrects a localised defect. A veneer is made in a laboratory, requires preparation of the tooth and is intended for a broader transformation of the smile. The choice depends on the extent of the correction and the condition of the teeth; it is discussed at the consultation.
Does composite stain?
Composite is more susceptible to staining than ceramic: coffee, tea, red wine and tobacco mark it over time. Polishing during the annual scaling gives it back its appearance.
How much does composite bonding cost?
The amount depends on the number of teeth and the working time in the chair. A detailed quote is given to you at the consultation, before treatment begins. The scale applied is on the page Prices.
Can bonding be done after aligner treatment?
Yes, and it is a frequent indication. Once the teeth are aligned, a worn edge or a tooth shorter than its neighbour sometimes remains: a few composite touch-ups finish the work.
Does bonding damage the tooth?
The tooth is not cut and the composite can be removed if necessary. As with a natural tooth, brushing and regular scaling remain what preserve the result.
Does my insurance cover bonding?
In Switzerland, basic insurance does not in principle cover dental treatment. Depending on your supplementary insurance, a contribution is possible: the detailed quote we give you can be submitted to your insurer.
See also: Dental veneers, Smile makeover, Prices.
