Dental bonding is a process where a dentist can cost-effectively and quickly repair some types of damage and improve the appearance of one’s teeth. Dental bonding can’t fix every type of dental issue, especially those of a more severe nature. Below, we look at how long should you expect dental bonding to last.
However, it is an effective solution for many mild ailments that can affect the teeth. Many patients would like to know how long these dental bonds will last.
How Long Should You Expect Dental Bonding to Last?
The good news is that dental bonds typically last for years if taken care of well. If you’re considering receiving dental bonding treatment, take a look at this overview that describes what to expect.
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonds are synthetic bonds that are applied to the teeth in order to repair mild cracks and dysfunction in dental health. These bonds are comprised of a few different materials.
In general, dental bonds can be expected to last from 5-10 years, meaning that you likely won’t have to return for additional repairs anytime soon after initially receiving treatment. You can discuss with your dentist whether or not dental bonds are the appropriate treatment for your dental situation prior to any work being performed.
What Impacts the Longevity of Dental Bonding?
There are several factors that can impact the longevity of your dental bonds. Some of the more common ones to consider include the following:
- The type of material used in the bonds you receive
- Where the dental bonding is applied
- Your overall dental health portrait and the strength of your teeth
- Habits that are detrimental to dental health, such as biting nails, grinding teeth, and eating hard or sticky foods.
- How much bonding material is used?
As stated before, dental bonds offer patients a quick solution to some of the issues that can affect one’s teeth. However, you can’t expect them to last forever.
When to Replace Your Dental Bonds
If everything is going well regarding your dental bonds, your bonds should feel as natural as healthy teeth. That being said, if you notice that the appearance or feeling of your bonds is beginning to change or become uncomfortable, you might want to consider going in for a follow-up appointment to discuss replacing yours.
Certain things to look out for include:
- Lifted or sharp corners
- Changes to the way that your bite feels
- Stains on the front of your bonds
- Loose resin that has the potential to chip one’s teeth.
In addition, if you’re interested in receiving teeth-whitening treatment, you’ll likely have to treat your bonded teeth separately from your natural teeth. This is because dental bonds do not respond to whitening agents in the same way that natural teeth do.
How to Make Your Bonds Last
You can extend the lifespan of your dental bonds by engaging in healthy daily dental hygiene practices. Dental bonds can be cared for in much the same way as your natural teeth do. Some extra precautions you can take include:
- Brushing twice per day using a gentle technique.
- Flossing regularly and applying the correct flossing techniques during that exercise.
- Receiving regular dental checkups as necessary.
- Avoiding chewing on hard candy and other hard things such as fingernails and plastic
- In the first few days after your dental bonding procedure, you should avoid consuming items that can stain your teeth, such as coffee and cigarettes.
By engaging in these healthy dental practices, you can ensure that your dental bonds stay healthier for longer periods of time.
Bonds vs. Veneers
Some patients may actually benefit more from dental veneers rather than dental bonds. Veneers are composed of composite resin and porcelain and can give patients that “movie star smile” that many seek.
Veneers have the potential to last longer and shine brighter than dental bonds. However, these fixtures are typically more costly and require multiple trips to the dentist in order to be fully installed. In addition, these dental fixtures are also not guaranteed to last forever.
You can receive dental bonding and then veneers later. This is possible because bonding is not a permanent procedure. Once veneers are applied. However, you will need to stick with them. This is due to the fact that preparing for veneers involves removing enamel from your natural teeth.
The Dentist of Choice for Upland
The Smile Studio offers its patients stunning dental work in a safe and comfortable setting. If you’re interested in speaking with a dentist regarding whether or not dental bonds would benefit you and your specific situation, contact us today in order to set up an appointment.