Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic procedure that could transform your smile in a single visit. It involves applying a tooth-colored resin to repair chips, close gaps, or enhance the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. While bonding is less invasive and more affordable than alternatives like veneers or crowns, it does require proper care to ensure it lasts. With the right approach, you can maintain your bonding for years and keep your smile looking its best.
Be Mindful of What You Eat and Drink
One of the most important aspects of maintaining dental bonding is being cautious with your diet. The composite resin used in bonding is not as strong or stain-resistant as natural enamel or porcelain. This means certain habits can compromise the integrity and appearance of the bonded area. Avoid biting into hard foods like ice, nuts, and hard candy, as these can chip or crack the bonding material. It’s also wise to avoid using your teeth to open packages or bottles, which puts unnecessary pressure on both the bonded teeth and your natural enamel.
In addition to being gentle with your teeth, try to minimize your intake of staining substances. Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sodas can discolor bonded areas over time. While occasional consumption is fine, drinking through a straw and rinsing with water afterward can help reduce staining. Smoking and tobacco use are also major culprits when it comes to discoloration and should be avoided altogether for both oral health and cosmetic reasons.
Prioritize Your Oral Hygiene
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential for preserving dental bonding. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Aggressive brushing can wear down the bonding, so use gentle, circular motions. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can collect around the bonded areas and lead to gum disease or decay.
It’s also helpful to use an antibacterial mouthwash to support your overall oral health. Though bonding material isn’t prone to cavities, the natural tooth underneath is still vulnerable, and plaque buildup can affect the margins where the bonding meets the tooth. Regular cleanings and checkups with your dentist ensure any potential issues are caught early and help extend the life of your bonding.
Protect Your Teeth from Trauma and Grinding
Bonding is more prone to chipping than natural enamel, so protecting your teeth from impact and excessive force is crucial. If you play contact sports, wear a mouthguard to shield your teeth from injury. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about a custom nightguard. Grinding places immense pressure on your teeth and can quickly damage bonded areas. Even if you don’t grind your teeth habitually, be aware of signs like jaw soreness or flattened tooth surfaces, which might indicate nighttime clenching. A mouthguard can help prevent further wear and preserve the bonded surfaces while also protecting your overall bite.
Stay in Touch with Your Dentist
Routine dental visits are key to maintaining both your natural teeth and any cosmetic treatments like bonding. During these appointments, your dentist will check for wear, discoloration, or damage to the bonded areas. If necessary, they can polish the surface to restore its appearance or perform touch-ups to keep everything looking smooth and natural. Dental bonding typically lasts between 4 to 10 years depending on the location of the bonding and your habits. By staying proactive with your care, you can help maximize the lifespan of the treatment.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Washington, D.C.
At Slate Dental, we are committed to helping you both achieve and maintain a healthier smile. Dental bonding could effectively improve your teeth and your bite. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your cosmetic dentistry treatment options.