In some cases, irregularities in tooth edges can sometimes prevent a uniform, straight smile, which can make a person feel less confident in their smile. Edge bonding is a painless, non-invasive and affordable treatment that can help restore the aesthetics of the teeth. Although, before you decide to get it done, there are some things you should know.
What Is Edge Bonding?
Edge bonding is a dental treatment that involves the application of composite resin on tooth edges to make them more even and straight-looking. Unlike crowns and veneers, edge bonding does not require any prior tooth preparation and can usually be done in just one visit to the dentist’s.
The procedure generally involves first etching the surface of the tooth with phosphoric acid so that bonding material can stick to the tooth. Afterwards, the putty-like material is placed on the tooth and shaped by the dentist.
The entire treatment might take around half an hour, but it can vary depending on the number of teeth you’re getting treated. There is no downtime and you’ll be able to see the results of your edge bonding immediately after the appointment.
Who Can Get Edge Bonding?
Edge bonding can be suitable in various situations, including:
- Repairing corner chips and cracks
- Making small teeth look longer and more aesthetically pleasing
- Making the jagged edges of teeth even
- Fixing any minor crookedness in the teeth
- Slight reshaping of the teeth to make them look better
However, edge bonding might not be considered suitable for someone who has a habit of grinding their teeth as it can lead to the failure of the treatment. After the procedure, you’ll have to be careful about biting into hard foods or objects (e.g. pens) as that may damage the bonding material.
How Long Does Edge Bonding Last?
One of the biggest downsides of edge bonding with composite resin is its relatively low durability. You may expect it to last for a couple of years or so, but you must follow the aftercare instructions of your dentist. Additionally, taking care of your teeth is very important, so make sure to brush and floss just as you would with your natural teeth.
How Much Is Edge Bonding In The UK?
In the UK, tooth edge bonding might cost you somewhere around £200 to £300 per tooth. Depending on the number of teeth you’re getting treated, the location of the clinic and the qualifications of your practitioner, the price can further change.
If you’re looking to get edge bonding more affordably, you can consider getting your teeth done in Turkey, where per tooth edge bonding might cost you £70-£100. The main reason behind the lower prices there is the low cost of living when compared to the UK.
Is Composite Edge Bonding Worth It?
Composite edge bonding can be worth it in restoring the aesthetics of your smile as well as your confidence in it. It’s a conservative treatment that does not require the shaving of the tooth enamel, and it can give immediate results with zero downtime.
Even so, it’s important to keep the limitations of this treatment in mind. Besides durability, you also have to be careful about the kinds of foods you eat, as the porous material of edge bonding makes it easy to stain. If this happens, the edge of your tooth, where the bonding material is, can stand out in sharp contrast from the rest of your tooth, giving you poor aesthetics.
Composite Veneers Vs. Edge Bonding: What’s The Difference?
Composite veneers are the same as composite bonding. However, edge bonding, in particular, targets the edges of the teeth, whereas composite veneers/bonding can be applied to any part of the tooth’s surface.
Edge bonding can help make the teeth look even and straight, but composite veneers, in general, can be used for different purposes, such as closing a tooth gap (diastema), hiding any cracks or discolouration, and treating gum recession.
Conclusion
Edge bonding is a quick and convenient fix for teeth that need to be straightened or made more even. While it can do wonders in some instances, it’s also important that you understand its potential drawbacks and have realistic expectations. In any case, it’s important that you find a qualified medical practitioner to undergo this treatment.
Reviewed and approved by Dr Izbel Aksit
FAQ
Can you whiten your teeth with edge bonding?
You cannot whiten the edge bonding material on your teeth. If you’re thinking of getting teeth whitening and are worried about the colour of the bonding material not matching, you can ask your doctor about getting it replaced to blend in naturally with the new colour.
Can you eat after edge bonding?
You definitely can eat after an edge bonding treatment, although make sure to ask your practitioner about how long you need to wait before you can consume food. However, in general, you might be advised against biting into hard foods as that may break the bonding material.
Why does edge bonding keep chipping?
Tooth edge bonding can chip due to a number of reasons, such as teeth grinding (bruxism), eating hard foods, or having a habit of biting into hard objects/using your teeth as tools. Finding the right practitioner is also crucial in the proper application of the bonding material.