Composite bonding in Durban North

Composite bonding (also called dental bonding) rebuilds just the part of the tooth that needs it. We add tooth-coloured composite straight onto the tooth and shape it by hand to match the teeth beside it, with no moulds and no laboratory.

What composite bonding can fix

Bonding is made for small changes to one or a few front teeth:

• A chipped or broken corner. A piece lost to a fall, a knock or a bite on something hard is rebuilt in composite matched to your tooth.
• Worn, short or uneven edges. Building up the biting edges, often called edge bonding, evens out front teeth that have worn down or were uneven to begin with. If grinding wore them, read about teeth grinding and how to protect your teeth.
• A small gap between front teeth. Composite added to the sides of the teeth next to the gap closes it, as long as the teeth are otherwise straight. Our guide to closing a gap without braces explains when this works.
• A small or narrow tooth. A tooth that is smaller than its neighbour, such as a peg-shaped side tooth, can be built up to a fuller size and shape.

If the tooth broke recently and hurts, bleeds or shows a pink spot, call us first so we can check it before it's bonded, and read what to do when you chip a tooth.

When to choose bonding over composite veneers

Bonding covers part of a tooth; a composite veneer covers the whole front surface. Choose bonding for a chip, a worn edge or a small gap on one or two teeth. Choose composite veneers when you'd like to change the colour or shape of several front teeth at once.

If colour bothers you most, start with professional teeth whitening. If you'd like several changes planned together, look at a composite smile makeover. And if a tooth is missing, ask us about a fibre bridge.

How it feels

We add composite to your tooth rather than cut into it, so there's usually little or no drilling. Whether you need a numbing injection depends on the tooth, and we'll tell you before we start. Some people notice a little sensitivity for a short while afterwards.

If you're nervous, tell us when you book. Headphones, a blanket and softer lighting are on our comfort menu, with a stress ball to hold if it helps.

Investing in your smile

You can pay for composite bonding by card or cash, or ask about paying in instalments. If the tooth broke in an accident, your medical aid may cover the repair, depending on your plan. If it's a gap you'd like closed, read what closing a gap costs.