Composite Bonding (Dental Restoration)

It’s a tooth-coloured material we use to rebuild areas of a tooth that have been damaged by decay, a chip, or general wear. The material bonds directly to your tooth and is applied in small layers, then hardened with a special light. The goal is to restore both the strength and the natural look of your tooth.

The material itself is excellent, but it’s very sensitive to how it’s placed. If saliva or moisture gets in the way, the bond won’t be as strong. That’s why we always isolate the tooth properly (usually with a rubber dam) and follow a strict protocol. When done correctly, composites perform very well.

On average, 5–10 years is common. In low-stress areas of the mouth, some last even longer. Their longevity depends on how well you clean your teeth, how your bite works, and how regularly you come for check-ups. If repairs are ever needed, they are usually straightforward.

The fee depends on the size and location of the cavity, as well as how many surfaces are affected. Sometimes additional steps are needed, like a liner to protect the nerve or re-bonding a broken contact. We always provide a written treatment plan before starting so you know the exact cost.

No. We use modern local anaesthetic so the procedure itself is painless. You may feel vibration or pressure from the dental handpiece, but not pain. Occasionally, patients notice mild sensitivity for a day or two afterwards—especially if the filling was deep—but this usually settles quickly.

Composites hold their colour well when they’re polished properly. Over the years, light staining from coffee, tea, or wine can appear, but it’s easy to polish away during a hygiene visit.

Yes, absolutely. Composite is a great solution for repairing the edge of a front tooth. We carefully shape and layer the material to mimic natural enamel. For very large chips or if you have a strong bite, sometimes a veneer or onlay is more predictable—but we’ll show you all the options.

Composite is more conservative because it allows us to keep more of your natural tooth. It’s also repairable and generally costs less. Ceramics are stronger and maintain their glossy surface for longer, making them a good choice for larger restorations. Often, the decision comes down to the size of the problem and your long-term goals.

Grinding (bruxism) can put a lot of stress on both teeth and fillings. We design the bite carefully for patients who grind and may recommend a night guard to protect your restorations. It’s an easy way to protect your investment.

Yes. Dental composites are well-researched and widely used around the world. They don’t contain metal and are considered biocompatible.

Most fillings take 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and location. Larger or multiple fillings may take longer.

Yes. Composite is often the best choice for kids because it’s tooth-coloured and less invasive. For young patients, we also pay special attention to comfort and behaviour management during treatment.

In most cases, no. Composites are colour-matched to your tooth, so they blend in seamlessly. Even close-up, it’s hard for someone to tell the difference.