What is Bioclear?
Bioclear is a way of bonding tooth-coloured composite to teeth. Clear, curved moulds wrap around the tooth, so the composite can be shaped in one piece that follows the tooth’s natural curve.
The method was developed by Bioclear Matrix Systems, and dentists train in it before using it. At Clover Dental, Dr Joe Lim is a certified Bioclear practitioner.
What can it be used for?
- closing small gaps between front teeth
- filling the dark triangles that can show between teeth near the gum, often after the gums have shrunk back
- rebuilding teeth that are chipped, worn or uneven
- replacing old, stained fillings on front teeth
- tooth-coloured fillings on back teeth
It does not suit every tooth. If a large part of a tooth is missing, a crown may be the better choice. Gum disease and decay are treated first.
How is it different from veneers or a usual filling?
- Little or no drilling of healthy tooth in many cases. Porcelain veneers usually need a thin layer of the tooth’s surface removed.
- Done at the clinic, often in one visit, with no laboratory work.
- Composite is softer than porcelain. It can stain or chip more easily, and may need polishing or a small repair over the years.
Your dentist talks you through these points for your own teeth, along with other options such as whitening, veneers or crowns.
What happens during treatment?
- Your dentist checks your teeth and gums, and takes X-rays if needed. You talk about what you would like to change and choose the shade.
- The teeth are cleaned thoroughly, so the composite bonds well.
- A clear mould is placed around each tooth.
- Warmed composite is placed in the mould and set with a blue light.
- The mould is removed, and the tooth is shaped and polished. Your bite is checked.
Often no injection is needed, unless decay is being removed.
How long does it last?
It depends on your bite, habits such as grinding your teeth, and how you look after your teeth. Your dentist checks the composite at your check-ups and can polish or repair it.
To look after it, brush and clean between your teeth every day, avoid biting hard things such as ice or pen caps, and cut down on drinks that stain, such as coffee and tea.
How much does it cost?
It depends on how many teeth are treated and how much needs to be built up. Your dentist tells you the cost before starting.
How do I book?
WhatsApp or call the clinic nearest you: Ang Mo Kio Ave 10, Ang Mo Kio (Central) or Clementi. Each clinic’s numbers are on our clinics page, or you can send a booking request. To see Dr Joe Lim for Bioclear, mention it when you get in touch.
Bioclear is a trademark of Bioclear Matrix Systems.