These are the patient’s natural teeth at the initial consultation appointment. They had worn edges, chips, a gap in the middle and a slightly mottled appearance.

The patient wanted to close the gap between the front teeth, even out the shape and size of the teeth, as well as improving the overall colour.

After consultation where we find out your goals for your new smile, we take a 3D scan of your natural teeth. This scan is sent to our lab technician who makes bespoke mock-up of your new teeth.

Before finalising a design we work with you and the lab to ensure the teeth meet your goals, making any fine detail changes we may need at this stage.

The design is then printed into a 3D model which we use to make a custom stent for the composite veneers.

With the custom stent in place, the dentist uses an injectable composite resin to create the composite veneer over the surface of the teeth.

Composite veneers are very minimally invasive, covering over the surface of the tooth rather than cutting away tooth surface to make space. Generally, there is no, or very little, tooth preparation required. Some cases, such as very rotated teeth, may need a small amount of preparation first.

This image shows mid-way through the composite-bonding process with the stent removed. The teeth are individually isolated and bonded to ensure the perfect shape.

After all of the teeth are bonded, they are polished up to a beautiful shine.

The gap between the front teeth is now closed, the shape of the teeth is much more even and the colour is brighter and more uniform.

After your composite bonding, your dentist will show you how to look after and clean your teeth to ensure you are able to maintain them well.

We recommend using an Oral-B electric toothbrush twice daily for at least 2 minutes, with a fluoride toothpaste. Interdental cleaning should be done at least once daily with floss or interdental brushes, your dentist will advise which is best for you.

Longevity of composite bonding will depend on good aftercare and maintenance.

1. Good oral hygiene and seeing the hygienist regularly.

2. Regular check-ups with your dentist to monitor all the teeth, including your composite veneers to ensure they are maintained well. Composite veneers, just like teeth, can wear and stain over time, so it is important to have them checked regularly.

3. For some patients, the dentist may recommend a night guard to reduce risk of damage to the composite veneers. Especially those with a history of clenching/grinding or tooth wear.