Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that dentists use to fix teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored, or otherwise imperfect. Using a composite resin, your dentist can make small but significant improvements to your smile.
So, how long does bonding on teeth last, and what can you do to make it last as long as possible? That’s what we’ll explore in this article.
Your oral hygiene and habits play a big part in how long your dental bonding will last, as well as the type of bonding you choose.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that uses a tooth-colored resin to improve the appearance of your teeth.
Your dentist applies the resin, carefully shapes it, and then uses a special light to harden it.
Dentists use bonding to:
- Fix chips and cracks
- Close small gaps
- Change a tooth’s shape or size
- Hide discoloration
How long does dental bonding last?
Dental bonding isn’t a permanent fix, but it’s relatively durable. You can expect bonding to last anywhere from 3 to 10 years.
How long your bonding lasts depends on a few different things:
- Where the bonding is located. Bonding on the front teeth will last longer than bonding on the molars, which are subjected to more intense chewing.
- Your oral habits. Do you grind your teeth or chew on ice?
- Your oral hygiene. Brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings are key.
- Your food choices. Crunchy, sticky, or very hard foods can damage bonding.
What affects how long tooth bonding lasts?
A number of factors play a role in the lifespan of tooth bonding. Here are some of the most important:
- Where the bonded tooth is located. Bonding on front teeth may not last as long because front teeth tend to get more wear and tear.
- Your oral habits. Biting on hard things such as ice or fingernails can damage the bonding material, and chewing hard foods can cause it to chip. If you grind your teeth, that can wear the bonding down, too.
- How well you care for your teeth and gums. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can build up and cause the bonding to fail.
- What you eat and drink. Drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine can stain the bonding material, and if you eat a lot of sugary foods, you could develop cavities that affect the bonding.
- The quality of the bonding material. The type of composite resin the dentist uses can affect how long the bonding lasts. An experienced dentist will know how to apply the bonding material properly.
How to extend the life of tooth bonding
While bonding isn’t a permanent fix, you can take steps to prolong its life.
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily to remove plaque, and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash.
- Avoid foods and drinks that stain. Coffee, tea, and red wine are some of the worst offenders, so limit how much you consume. Rinse your mouth with water after you’ve had something that could stain your teeth.
- Wear a mouthguard. If you’re a teeth-grinder, wearing a nightguard can protect the bonding from damage.
- Avoid bad habits. Don’t bite your nails or chew on hard objects, and don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages.
- Schedule regular dental checkups. Regular checkups allow your dentist to catch any problems early. Your dentist can also polish the bonding to keep it looking its best.
With proper care, you can keep your bonded teeth looking great for years to come.
When should tooth bonding be replaced?
Tooth bonding isn’t permanent, and you’ll likely need to have it replaced eventually. Keep an eye out for these signs that your bonding needs repair:
- Stains or discoloration you can see.
- Cracks or chips in the bonding material.
- Rough edges that bother your tongue or gums.
- Sensitivity in the bonded tooth.
Your dentist can also check the condition of your tooth bonding during your regular dental check-ups.
Is tooth bonding right for you?
Bonding is a relatively inexpensive way to make small cosmetic changes to your teeth. The procedure is also less invasive than getting veneers or crowns.
Before you commit to bonding, talk to your dentist about your goals and what you expect from the procedure. If bonding isn’t the best option, your dentist can review some alternative treatments.
In Conclusion
How long your dental bonding lasts depends on how well you take care of your teeth. You can expect bonding to last for about 3 to 10 years.
If you brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for checkups, your bonding will likely last longer. Remember that bonding isn’t a permanent solution, but it can significantly improve your smile as long as you maintain it.