It isn’t uncommon to accrue a few flaws in your teeth over the years. Chips, cracks, and stains can all develop as a result of injury or improper use. In some cases, people are born with gaps in their teeth that they find unsightly. Thankfully, these issues can usually be addressed through cosmetic dental bonding, a procedure that can be completed within minutes and without anesthesia during a routine dental appointment. However, how long your dental bond lasts depends largely on how well you take care of it. Here are a few tips for making your dental bond last longer.
How Does Cosmetic Dental Bonding Work?
Cosmetic dental bonding involves placing tooth-colored ceramic resin upon the dental flaw and shaping it so it matches the natural contours of the smile. Your dentist will use this putty-like substance to fill in cracks and gaps, cover stains, or fill a gap between teeth before hardening it with a special ultraviolet light. This whole procedure can be completed within minutes during a routine dental exam and involves no anesthesia, allowing the patient to drive home or back to work immediately afterward.
How Can I Make My Dental Bond Last Longer?
You can help your dental bond last as long as possible by following a few guidelines. These include:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice as well as flossing and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash every day.
- Stay away from items that cause stains. During the first few days after receiving dental bonding, avoid eating or drinking anything that can cause stains. These include coffee, tea, wine, cola, sports drinks, and anything else heavy in pigments or dyes.
- Avoid hard foods. Crunching down on hard foods can break dental bonds away from the teeth. Be careful about hard candy, popcorn, and meat-off-the-bone. Sugary foods also cause oral bacteria to produce acid which can erode the bond.
- Attend regular dental appointments. Your dentist is trained and equipped to keep your smile looking and working great. Showing up to your dental cleanings can keep your teeth and your dental work in good shape.
After using dental bonding to repair your tooth, you’ll probably want to take care of it so it lasts for as long as possible. With excellent care, dental bonding can last for up to ten years.
About the Author
Dr. Shauna Soltani earned her dental doctorate at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and continues to further her skillset with continuing education courses. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the Academy of General Dentistry. Her office in Denver, CO offers family, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as cosmetic dental bonding. For more information on taking care of a dental bond, contact the office online or dial (720) 608-7770.
