Composite Bonding — Treatment Terms & Consent
These terms apply to composite bonding (cosmetic bonding) treatment at Smilespark Dental Practice, 2 Gallions Road, London SE7 7FU. They are the terms of our Composite Bonding Consent Form, which you will read and sign in the practice before any treatment begins. You can download the consent form (PDF) to read in advance.
The nature of the treatment
Cosmetic bonding may involve certain risks and the possibility of unsuccessful results, including failure to achieve the results that may be desired or expected. Although care and diligence are exercised in every treatment, there is no guarantee of anticipated or desired results, nor of the longevity of the treatment. By consenting to treatment you accept these risks, which include but are not limited to the following.
- Reduction or roughening of tooth structure. To prepare a tooth for composite bonding it is necessary to slightly reduce or roughen the surface the material bonds to. This is done as conservatively as possible. If the bonding breaks or comes off, the uncovered tooth may become more susceptible to decay and may require a porcelain veneer or crown.
- Sensitivity. There is usually no appreciable sensitivity, but this treatment can cause teeth to become sensitive. If sensitivity occurs and persists, please contact us for an examination. After treatment a tooth may develop pulpitis or pulpal degeneration, for which root canal treatment is often necessary.
- Chipping, breaking or loosening of the composite. However well the work is done, this can occur. Contributing factors include chewing hard materials, changes in biting forces, blows to the mouth, breakdown of the bonding agents and other conditions outside the dentist's control.
- Aesthetics and appearance. Every effort is made to match the form and shade of the bonding so that it is cosmetically pleasing. Because the material is artificial, some differences from your natural teeth may exist and a perfect match of shade and form cannot be promised.
- Longevity. No specific lifespan can be placed on bonding. It varies from patient to patient and depends on individual habits and circumstances, general health, oral hygiene, regular check-ups and diet.
- Your responsibilities. You must tell the dentist immediately and seek attention if any unexpected problem occurs or if you are dissatisfied. All instructions must be followed, including scheduling and attending all appointments.
Our one-year guarantee
We include a one-year guarantee free of charge for Smilespark patients. It covers any fracture of composite veneers or bonding.
The guarantee does not cover failure due to underlying tooth fracture, secondary decay, trauma or accidental damage, fracture caused by inappropriate use (such as opening bottles), de-bonding (loosening), or a subsequent need for root canal treatment.
The guarantee is only valid for patients who attend Smilespark Dental Practice twice a year for examination and hygiene appointments, so that we can check for aggravating factors such as gum disease, excessive force, plaque and food trapping. You must also follow our recommended preventative treatments and maintenance, including wearing a bite splint or guard at night where the dentist detects a history of grinding or clenching.
Before you decide
- Composite bonding discolours over time. The rate depends on aftercare, including diet, hygiene and how quickly your teeth stain.
- Bonding is matched to the current colour of your teeth. If you would like your teeth whiter, whitening should be completed before bonding, because the bonding cannot be lightened afterwards.
- Composite bonding is irreversible. Once attached, it is very difficult to establish the junction between the composite and the tooth.
- If straightening has been recommended before bonding and you choose to straighten later, the bonding may need to be removed and redone after straightening, and this is not included in the original cost.
Informed consent
Before treatment you will have the opportunity to ask any questions about the nature and purpose of composite bonding and to receive answers to your satisfaction. By signing the consent form in the practice you confirm that you voluntarily accept the possible risks associated with any phase of the treatment, that no guarantees or promises have been made concerning the results, that the fees have been explained and are satisfactory, and that you authorise your dentist to carry out any treatment deemed necessary or advisable, including the administration or prescribing of anaesthetics and medications.
Open day pricing and inclusions are set out on the composite bonding page. The cancellation and deposit policy above also applies to composite bonding appointments.