Composite Bonding vs Edge Bonding

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Table Contents:

What Is Composite Bonding? By Dr. Mark Flynn

Composite bonding and edge bonding are exactly the same type of cosmetic dental procedure but describe different parts of the teeth being restored.

They are both minimally invasive or non-invasive cosmetic dentistry treatments that involve bonding tooth-coloured resin to the tooth structure to achieve the desired shape and colour of the teeth.

composite bonding before kate monaghan the modern dentist

After Composite bonding - The Modern Dentist - Kate Monaghan

Kate Monaghan - Composite Bonding - Dr Mark Flynn — View Close Up

Ruth Bulman - Composite Bonding - Dr Mark Flynn — View Close Up

Composite Bonding Vs. Edge Bonding: Key Differences

Composite bonding encompasses any treatment that involves bonding tooth coloured composite resin to teeth.

In most cases, people use this to mean completely changing the appearance of the front teeth or the visible teeth in a smile, but it can also be used to describe the process of restoring worn or damaged back teeth (this is not a cosmetic treatment but uses essentially the same technology and process).

With composite bonding on front teeth, we often cover the entire tooth with a thin layer of composite resin.

This is also often referred to as a composite veneer.

We can use this process to mask discoloured teeth and to strengthen weakened or fractured teeth.

Edge bonding means using composite bonding to restore chipped teeth or worn teeth, or to reshape teeth, for example, by making shorter teeth longer, adding material to just the edges.

Most of the natural tooth is left uncovered and the extra part is colour matched to copy its appearance and blended with the natural teeth.

Unlike porcelain veneers, neither of these processes usually involves any tooth preparation, and therefore, any treatment is reversible.

Factors	Description
Which lasts longer?	Both edge bonding and composite bonding will tend to last equally long. Their longevity comes down to how well they're done by the dentist and how well you look after them.
Which looks more natural?	With a good cosmetic dentist, both options will leave you with a natural looking smile. This comes down to good planning, the right shape and size of the teeth relative to your face and lips, and the colours used. Teeth that are too large, too white or too opaque tend to look fake and unaesthetic.
When is composite bonding/edge bonding preferred?	Usually, edge bonding is used for more minor adjustments and corrections, including jagged edges and fractured teeth and to close gaps; whereas full composite bonding is often used for a more to enhance aesthetics and create a brand new smile.
Which is faster?	Edge bonding is often faster because less material is used, and less reshaping of the tooth is required.
How do I maintain them, and do they stain?	They can stain but often this is down to either poor technique by the dentist or poor aftercare. With good oral hygiene and a good diet, low in acids and sugars, plus a night guard if recommended by your dentist, you can maintain them just as easily as real teeth.

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How do I Decide Between Composite Bonding And Edge bonding?

Your dentist will advise you on which option is more appropriate for you at your initial consultation.

If you already have quite full, dominant or large teeth that are chipped or worn, then often we'll use edge bonding.

Whereas, if your teeth would benefit from more volume and a fuller smile is desirable, then we'll use full composite bonding that often covers the entire surface of the tooth.