Frequently Asked Questions

Invisalign is designed to provide a long-term solution for patients, but the results may not be permanent. The length of time that your teeth remain straight after Invisalign treatment varies depending on the severity of your individual case and how well you follow the instructions given by your dentist. To ensure that the desired results are maintained, it is important for patients to wear their aligners as prescribed and wear their retainers as directed by the dentist.

Our dentists create a treatment plan to map out the movement of your teeth. Invisalign applies gentle pressure to move your teeth at the right time to the right place. Every two or three weeks, you move on to the next Invisalign aligner in your treatment plan.

Invisalign treatment can take from as little as six months up to 18 months, depending of the complexity of the case. Result can typically be seen in just a matter of weeks.

Invisalign treatment is generally not painful, but there could be some discomfort as your teeth adjust to the new aligners. If any pain is felt contact the practice.

Invisalign aligners are made from a thin, flexible patented material called SmartTrack. The strong, BPS, BPA, gluten, and latex free aligners fit snugly over your teeth.

Invisalign is a removable, custom-made, clear aligner that straightens your teeth overtime. Unlike with metal braces, there are no wires, brackets or lifestyle restrictions.

Invisalign uses clear aligners making it a highly discreet treatment option compared to traditional metal braces, which are more visible and can sometimes trap food and cause irritation. In many cases, Invisalign can also achieve results more quickly than traditional teeth straightening methods (depending on the complexity of the treatment).

Invisalign treatment is suitable for teens and adults who are looking to improve the appearance of their teeth by correcting any imperfections such as crooked teeth or an overbite.

Just like natural teeth, composite bonding can stain over time. To prevent discolouration, limit coffee, tea, red wine and smoking and maintain regular dental cleanings.

No, composite bonding does not damage your natural teeth. The procedure is minimally invasive and typically does not require the removal of enamel, unlike treatments such as veneers or crowns. The bonding material is simply applied to the surface of the tooth and can be removed or replaced without causing harm.

With proper care, composite bonding can last between 5 to 10 years. Factors like oral hygiene, diet and habits such as teeth grinding can impact its longevity.

While long-lasting, composite bonding will not offer a permanent solution for correcting tooth imperfections or defects. Over time, your bonding may need touch-ups or replacement due to wear or staining.

No, composite bonding is a pain-free procedure that typically does not require anaesthesia. Since no enamel is removed, it’s a comfortable and non-invasive cosmetic treatment.

Composite bonding can be used to correct a range of oral issues such as:

• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Close small gaps
• Cover stains or discolouration
• Smooth out enamel defects
• Protect exposed tooth roots caused by receding gums.

Are you ready to wear your smile with confidence?

Composite bonding, also known as dental bonding, is a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment known for its quick application, natural-looking results, and long-lasting finish.

In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what composite bonding is, walk you through the procedure step-by-step, and explore its benefits, expected lifespan, and how to care for your newly enhanced smile.

What Is Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure in which a tooth-coloured resin material is carefully applied to the surface of the tooth, then expertly shaped and polished to blend seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.

Designed to improve both the appearance and function of a tooth, composite bonding provides a natural-looking finish that makes it a popular alternative to treatments such as veneers.

It is a minimally invasive solution that can often be completed in just one appointment.

What Is Composite Bonding Used For?

Dental bonding is ideal for addressing minor to moderate cosmetic concerns, including:

• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Gaps between the teeth
• Discoloured or stained teeth
• Uneven or irregularly shaped teeth
• Slightly crooked teeth
• Worn or shortened tooth edges

It is not suitable for severe misalignment or major structural damage.

It offers a quick and effective way to enhance your smile without extensive dental treatment.

How Does Composite Bonding Work? The Step-by-Step Process

Composite bonding is a minimally invasive cosmetic treatment that can usually be completed in a single visit, making it a convenient option for many patients.

Before your appointment, your dentist may recommend teeth whitening to brighten the surrounding teeth. This ensures the bonded teeth match your desired shade, as composite resin can not be whitened once applied.

Step 1: Tooth Preparation

The tooth surface is lightly etched to create a slightly rough texture, which helps the composite resin bond securely.

This step requires minimal enamel removal and is usually painless.

Step 2: Application

A tooth-coloured composite resin is selected to closely match your natural teeth or preferred shade.

The material is then applied in layers to the tooth surface, allowing the dentist to build the ideal shape and appearance gradually.

Step 3: Shaping

The dentist carefully sculpts and contours the resin, paying close attention to the tooth’s shape, edges and how it fits with the surrounding teeth.

Step 4: Curing

Once the shape is perfected, a blue curing light is used to harden the resin. This light activates the material, making it strong and durable while securely bonding it to the tooth.

Step 5: Polishing

The final step involves smoothing and polishing the bonded tooth. This creates a natural shine and ensures the tooth blends seamlessly with the rest of your smile, both in appearance and feel.

Overall, composite bonding offers a simple, minimally invasive way to enhance your smile with natural-looking results in just one visit.

What Are the Benefits of Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding offers a range of benefits, making it a popular choice for patients looking to enhance their smile without extensive dental treatment.

Key advantages include:

• Minimally invasive: Very little preparation is required, helping to preserve your natural tooth structure

• Usually completed in one appointment: Ideal for those looking for quick, convenient results.

• More affordable than veneers or crowns: A cost-effective cosmetic solution

• Natural-looking results: The resin is colour-matched and shaped to blend seamlessly with your teeth

• Little to no enamel removal: Often reversible and gentler than other cosmetic treatments

• Immediate improvement in appearance: You can see a noticeable difference as soon as treatment is complete

Composite bonding is an ideal option for achieving a refreshed, confident smile with minimal time and disruption.

How Long Does Composite Bonding Last?

On average, composite bonding lasts between five and seven years, but with careful maintenance, it may last up to ten years.

Its lifespan can be influenced by factors such as biting habits, oral hygiene, diet and teeth grinding.

With proper care and regular dental examinations, your bonded teeth can continue to look natural and function well for many years.

How to Look After Your Composite Bonding

To keep bonded teeth looking their best, follow these simple care tips:

• Brush and floss daily to maintain good oral hygiene
• Avoid biting hard objects, such as pens or ice to prevent damage
• Limit staining foods and drinks, like coffee, tea and red wine
• Attend regular dental check-ups for professional care and monitoring
• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth

With consistent care, your composite bonding can stay strong, natural-looking and long-lasting.

Is Composite Bonding Suitable For Everyone?

Composite bonding is suitable for patients with healthy teeth and gums.

Active decay or gum disease must be treated first.

A dental examination is required to confirm suitability.

Final Thoughts

Composite bonding is a quick, minimally invasive way to enhance your smile, offering natural-looking results with immediate improvement.

With the right care, it can last for many years, helping you feel confident every time you smile.

Our experienced team at Grosvenor Dental Practice can guide you through the process and recommend the best solution for your needs.

Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more confident smile!

The resin material used in dental bonding treatment will be accurately colour-matched to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.

Airflow teeth cleaning does not chemically whiten teeth in the same way as professional teeth whitening treatment. However, it can make your teeth appear noticeably brighter by removing surface stains caused by coffee, tea, red wine and smoking. Many patients are surprised by the difference Airflow stain removal can make after just one appointment, especially in areas affected by everyday staining and plaque build-up.

Airflow treatment is also an excellent preparation step before professional teeth whitening, helping to create a cleaner tooth surface for more even whitening results.

Airflow offers a deeper clean, that removes stubborn staining and without being harsh on teeth or gums. Airflow is also often faster, more comfortable than a scale and polish clean with less risks or chance of damage.

An average appointment lasts around 30 minutes. Your dentist can make you feel clean and bright in as little as one appointment.

Dental practices often provide you with options depending on the condition of your teeth and gums. It can on average range from £30-£100 depending on the amount of straining, calculus, and length of appointment. Grosvenor Dental Practice now offers airflow teeth cleaning for FREE to all their patients who are members of their dental plan. Call Grosvenor Dental Practice now on 01782 848708 now or email [email protected] and book your appointment.

It is recommended to get Airflow Teeth Cleaning done every 6 months as part of your oral hygiene routine. It helps to maintain healthy teeth and gums, reduce plaque build-up and keep your breath fresh.

Yes, Airflow Teeth Cleaning is a safe and gentle way to remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth. It is not invasive and causes no pain or discomfort.

Airflow teeth cleaning is fast, gentle, and less costly than traditional methods. It has the ability to remove stains from up to 5mm deep into the periodontal pockets and from the surface of your teeth. Leaving you with a brighter white smile in around 30 minutes; no abrasive technique, scrapping tools, or long monthly appointments.

Airflow Teeth Cleaning is a fast, comfortable and hygienic way to maintain your oral health. It removes plaque and bacteria from hard to reach areas of the teeth, reduces bad breath and helps to prevent gum disease.

• Most denture issues will resolve if you leave out your dentures as much as possible.
• Bathe irritated or swollen areas with warm salty water.
• Stick to a soft diet.
• Use denture adhesives to make your denture more stable.

It’s important to clean your aligners before you put them back in. You should:

1. Rinse after removal

Each time you remove your Invisalign aligners, rinse them under lukewarm water to wash away saliva and debris.

2.Gently clean them

Use a soft toothbrush to lightly brush the aligners, helping to remove plaque before it has a chance to build up.

3. Rinse thoroughly

Make sure there is no soap or cleaning residue left before placing the aligners back in your mouth.

Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process

When it comes to deep cleaning your aligners, you should use retainer cleaning tablets or Invisalign cleaning crystals.

1. Fill a container with lukewarm water
2. Add the cleaning tablet/crystals
3. Soak aligners for 15-30 minutes
4. Rinse thoroughly before use

Read our full guide on cleaning your Invisalign aligners.

• If possible, slip the crown back over the tooth after coating the inner surface with an over-the-counter dental cement, toothpaste, or denture adhesive.
• Do not use superglue!

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Stick to a soft diet and avoid spicy and acidic foods and drink.
• Clean your teeth well but be gentle.
• Use Difflam, available as a spray or mouthwash.

• Use a soft bristled toothbrush
• Brush with sensitive toothpaste – you can also apply some toothpaste to the sensitive areas with your finger
• Use a fluoridated mouthwash

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Use dental floss to remove any lodged food.
• If your mouth is swollen, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek.
• If there is a hole in the tooth or it is cracked you can use a variety of over the counter temporary filling materials.
• Use Ibuprofen or Paracetamol painkillers to control the pain if necessary.

Good dental hygiene can prevent problems such as cavities or gum disease which can impair your face shape and your ability to eat and speak properly, cause pain and bad breath. Studies have also suggested that the bacteria from gum disease can travel to your heart and arteries leasing to further issues.

Regular hygiene appointments help remove plaque, tartar and harmful bacteria that can build up in hard-to-reach areas, reducing the risk of gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath. Professional teeth cleaning can also help remove surface staining caused by coffee, tea, smoking and everyday food and drink, leaving your smile looking cleaner and brighter.

• Excellent cleaning in the area between the wisdom tooth and gum.
• Bathe the area with hot salty water.
• Stick to a soft diet.
• Use either Corsodyl or Peroxyl mouthwash.