Does composite bonding hurt?

Composite bonding is additive. In most cosmetic cases the composite is bonded onto the existing enamel rather than into a prepared tooth, so there is nothing to drill and no need for an injection. Patients are often surprised that they simply sit, listen to something, and leave with a different smile.

The honest caveats: if an old filling is being replaced, or a chip has exposed dentine, a small amount of preparation and local anaesthetic may be needed. That is discussed and agreed before the appointment, never sprung on you in the chair.

What the appointment actually feels like

• A cheek retractor to keep the teeth dry — the least comfortable part for most people
• A mildly sour-tasting etching gel for a few seconds per tooth
• A bright curing light, warm but not painful
• Two to three hours in the chair for six to ten teeth, with breaks whenever you want them
• Polishing at the end, which feels like a thorough clean

Afterwards

Mild sensitivity to cold for a few days is normal, particularly if anything was prepared, and it settles on its own. Your bite may feel very slightly different where edges have been lengthened; if anything catches, we adjust it at the two-week review.

There is no recovery period. You eat normally that evening, though avoiding red wine, curry and strong tea for the first forty-eight hours helps the surface stay stain-free while it fully hardens.

If you are anxious

Bonding is often the treatment nervous patients start with, precisely because it is reversible and needle-free. Tell us at the consultation and the appointment is paced around you — shorter sessions, agreed stop signals, and as much explanation as you want, or as little.

Book a consultation in Twickenham or call the practice.