Dental Bonding: How Long Do the Results Last?
Dental bonding involves the use of tooth-colored dental resin that is painted directly onto the surface of the tooth. This color-matched resin blends in seamlessly with your natural tooth structure, masking cosmetic imperfections from view in the process. Thanks to dental bonding, people can have smiles that look pristine with just one simple, minimally invasive procedure. Bonding is often included into more comprehensive smile makeover plans.
The dentists at our Charlotte, NC field many questions about the results of dental bonding treatment and how long they last. Let’s cover some of the basics and then consider the lifespan of this cosmetic dentistry treatment option.
Problems Dental Bonding Can Treat
Dental bonding is an ideal treatment option for the following cosmetic flaws:
- Minor chips
- Small cracks
- Slim gaps
- Dental stains
- Tooth discoloration
During the consultation process, we can determine if dental bonding is right for you or if another cosmetic dentistry procedure would be more effective.
How Durable Is Dental Bonding Material?
Dental bonding material is highly durable, and able to withstand the normal wear and tear on the teeth from daily biting and chewing. It can still chip or crack with major trauma or pressure, but it is sturdy and remains in place for quite some time. With that in mind, teeth grinding or other conditions that exert a great deal of pressure on your teeth can result in additional wear to your bonding material.
On Average, How Long Does Bonding Last?
On average, dental bonding material can last up to 10 years. This can vary from patient to patient. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, your dental bonding results will last longer.
Fixing and Touch-Up Treatment
During dental visits, your dentist may be able to fix or touch-up a previous dental bonding procedure if needed. This helps patients keep the results and benefits of dental bonding for the long run. New bonding material will be created and color-matched, and touch-ups or a new bonding procedure can be done as needed.
Advancing Beyond Dental Bonding
After 10 years of dental bonding, you may need more extensive cosmetic dentistry work to help your smile look its very best. At this point, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers or another type of treatment, but is important to keep in mind veneers are more expensive than bonding.
During your dental visit, your treatment options can be discussed in more detail. We will be more than happy to consider your many options for cosmetic treatment.
How to Prolong the Life of Dental Bonding Treatment
If you want to prolong the life of your dental bonding treatment, there are several things that you can do:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day (ideally after every meal)
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste that’s not too abrasive
- Floss your teeth at least once a night (ideally after every meal)
- Avoid using tobacco products
- Wear mouth and face protection as needed and when applicable
- Reduce consumption of sugar and soda
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups
Learn More About Cosmetic Dentistry
For more information about dental bonding and whether or not it’s right for you, be sure to contact experienced cosmetic dentists. We look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in much greater detail.