Tips To Help Make Dental Bonding Last

Dental bonding can restore and reshape the appearance of a tooth. This composite resin material is tooth-colored and blends in naturally with the rest of the smile. Better yet, it can even last for years when cared for properly. Get the most out of dental bonding by following these tips to help it last.

Practice consistent oral hygiene

Dental bonding fits into or on the tooth, essentially becoming a part of it. It follows that patients will need to care for bonding the same way they would care for the rest of the tooth. This includes brushing it with a soft toothbrush and using nonabrasive toothpaste, such as those marketed as gentle or for sensitive teeth. Make sure to brush at least twice a day to help remove stains on the bonding and prevent tooth decay from affecting it.

Opt for alcohol-free mouthwash

Many patients rinse with an alcohol-based mouthwash as part of their oral hygiene routine. However, patients with dental bonding should avoid these mouthwashes, as they can wear down bonding. Opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash instead.

Drink less frequently

Within the same vein as the last tip, patients should limit how much alcohol they drink. Excessive consumption of alcohol can damage dental bonding and tooth enamel. Also, carbonated alcoholic beverages can wear away bonding particularly fast. Other alcoholic beverages, like red wine, can stain bonding.

Limit (or quit) smoking

Smoking tobacco does not necessarily damage dental bonding, but it can stain it. Unfortunately, it has the same effect on natural teeth. For a whiter smile, consider quitting smoking or at least cutting back.

Avoid staining the teeth

Red wine is not the only thing that can stain teeth and dental bonding. People should also be careful with coffee, black tea, and dark-colored berries or fruits (think blackberries or pomegranates). Brushing the teeth soon after consuming these foods or drinks can help limit staining if a patient does not want to avoid them altogether. Even something as simple as rinsing the mouth with water immediately may help.

Shake common bad habits

Anything that damages the teeth has the potential to damage bonding. Examples include chewing on ice or pens, biting nails, or opening packages with the teeth. Try to break these habits.

Consider a nightguard

Grinding the teeth (bruxism) can damage the natural teeth and weaken bonding. While this is a difficult habit to break, especially because it often occurs while sleeping, patients can reduce its effects with a nightguard. Many dentists offer custom nightguards that protect the teeth against grinding and realign the jaw to help correct bruxism.

Visit the dentist every six months

Routine dental checkups allow a dentist to examine teeth with bonding and ensure everything is looking as it should. In fact, dentists are typically able to repair or replace any chipped bonding in the same appointment. Additionally, the dental hygienist can polish any bonding after removing plaque and tartar buildup.