Enjoy Long-Lasting Results with Dental Bonding

Whether you have a cavity or chipped tooth, cosmetic bonding provides a quick fix for many dental issues, both restorative and cosmetic. The composite resin material is customized to match the color of your teeth to blend in with your enamel. After just one appointment, you can have a healthy, beautiful smile, but how long will your results last? Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your investment.

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding is versatile because it can correct several concerns using an affordable and convenient method that looks natural. Dental bonding is often a great solution for patients wanting to correct:

• Tooth decay
• Exposed tooth roots
• Chipped or fractured teeth
• Dark tooth discoloration or stains
• Abnormally shaped tooth

Dental bonding can be performed in just one appointment; however, if you are treating several teeth, your dentist may recommend multiple visits. They’ll use a local anesthetic to ensure you are comfortable before beginning your procedure. After you are numb and your teeth have been cleaned, a weak acid is applied to the tooth to open the pores in your enamel. The acid is rinsed off before the customized resin is placed on your tooth and hardened using a special dental light. You’ll walk out of your appointment with a dazzling, healthy smile.

Is Dental Bonding Permanent?

On average, dental bonding lasts for about 5 to 10 years before needing to be replaced. The lifespan of your investment depends on multiple factors, like your aftercare routine. It’s not uncommon for bonding to last for a decade or longer with the right care. Although your results may not last forever, dental bonding doesn’t alter the structure of your tooth. Since the procedure is reversible, it allows you to choose different treatment options when it’s time to have your bonding replaced, like porcelain veneers.

How Do I Ensure My Dental Bonding Lasts?

You can protect your investment from preventable complications to ensure your new smile serves you for many years. Your oral hygiene routine is the most important factor to influence the lifespan of your dental bonding. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Use high-quality dental floss to clean between each tooth.

Besides caring for your smile at home, schedule a cleaning and checkup with your dentist every 6 months. They’ll examine your bonding at each appointment and make recommendations to protect your results, like not using your teeth as tools to open packages or chewing on your fingernails.

Your dentist will create the personalized plan you need to enjoy your beautiful smile for many years.

About Dr. Karen Ho

Dr. Ho earned her dental degree from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry. She completes over 50 hours of continuing education each year to offer advanced services, like cosmetic dentistry. If you’re ready to enhance your smile, contact our office today to schedule your consultation for dental bonding.