Does bonding damage my teeth?

Bonding usually needs little or no removal of natural tooth. It can generally be repaired or replaced later without significant harm to the tooth underneath.

Can bonded teeth be whitened?

No. Composite does not lighten with whitening gel. If you want whiter teeth, whitening is best done before bonding so the composite can be matched to the new shade.

Is bonding cheaper than veneers?

Bonding usually costs less per tooth than porcelain veneers. Veneers tend to last longer and resist stains better, so we talk through both at your consultation.

Close-up of front teeth after composite bonding to even out chipped edges

Cosmetic

Cosmetic bonding, one visit

Cosmetic bonding uses tooth-coloured composite resin to repair chips, close small gaps and reshape teeth, usually in one visit at our Richmond studio.

What is cosmetic bonding?

Cosmetic bonding, also called composite bonding, is a treatment where tooth-coloured composite resin is applied to the tooth, sculpted into shape and hardened with a curing light. It can repair chips, close small gaps, cover minor stains and even out the length of teeth.

Bonding usually needs little or no removal of natural tooth, and it is often completed in one appointment. Composite is not as stain resistant or long-lasting as porcelain, so bonded teeth may need polishing or touching up over the years.

See the difference a clean makes

Drag the handle across the smile. The same teeth, before and after a professional clean, whitening or cosmetic work.

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Close-up of front teeth with small gaps and a chipped edge before bonding

The same front teeth after composite bonding closed the gaps and repaired the chip

AfterBefore

Small gaps closed and a chipped edge rebuilt with tooth-coloured composite.

Drag, tap or use the arrow keys

Illustrative demo images, not patient results.

Shade guide used to match composite resin to natural tooth colour

Who is it for?

Small chips or worn edges on front teeth
Minor gaps between teeth
Teeth that are slightly short or uneven in shape
People who want a conservative option before considering veneers

What to expect

01

Consultation and shade match

We discuss what you want to change and match the composite shade to your natural teeth.
02

Preparing the tooth

The surface is lightly roughened and a bonding agent applied, usually without the need for anaesthetic.
03

Sculpting

Composite resin is added in layers, shaped by hand and set with a curing light.
04

Finishing

The bonding is trimmed, checked against your bite and polished to a natural sheen.

How do I look after bonded teeth?

Brush and floss as normal and keep up regular check-ups and cleans. Composite can stain over time, so limit coffee, tea, red wine and smoking. Avoid biting hard objects, which can chip the edges.

Common questions

Bonding often lasts around five to seven years before it needs repair or replacement. Diet, grinding and care at home all affect how long it lasts.

Related treatments

Book cosmetic bonding

Book online in a minute, or call and talk to a real person at the front desk.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday08:00-19:00
Friday08:00-17:00
Saturday08:30-13:00
Find us: (03) 7010 4120 hello@marlowdental.example 41 Bridge Road, Richmond VIC 3121

Book a visit

Choose a treatment and a time that suits you. We confirm by phone or email within one business day.