What Is Tooth Bonding?

Dental bonding involves applying a bonding material to a tooth to alter its shape, size, and appearance. The procedure is quick and only takes about 30-60 minutes. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, it's painless, and you might not even require anesthesia.

The procedure begins by roughening the tooth's surface to make the bonding process easier. Next, the dentist applies a putty-like tooth-colored composite resin to the tooth and shines a special light or laser to quicken the bonding process. Lastly, the dentist shapes the tooth to ensure normal results. The dentist uses a bonding material that closely matches the color of your natural teeth to make your smile uniform

Generally, dental bonding can:

• Repair decayed teeth.
• Fix chipped, fractures, or cracked teeth.
• Hide or cover teeth stains and discoloration.
• Protect a worn-out or damaged enamel.
• Protect an exposed tooth root.
• Close minor teeth gaps between teeth.
• Change the size, shape, and length of a tooth.
• Be an alternative to silver amalgam fillings

If you're considering dental bonding, visit a dentist near you to determine whether you're eligible for the treatment. If not, the dentist will give you alternatives such as dental veneers, fillings, and dental crowns.

What Is the Average Lifespan of Composite Bonding?

In general, composite bonding lasts for about 5-10 years. It's worth noting that composite resin isn't as strong and durable as your natural tooth's enamel. They can easily wear down, chip, break, or become discolored. For instance, individuals who chew nails or ice are likely to reduce the lifespan of their dental bonding. For this reason, good oral hygiene and habits are essential to maintain the integrity of your bonded tooth.

What Affects the Lifespan of Composite Bonding?

Below are a few factors that can affect the lifespan of your bonded tooth:

• Location of the bonded tooth

Usually, the molars and premolars are designed to withstand great forces of chewing and grinding foods. For this reason, composite bonding on these teeth may not last as long as bonding on your front teeth. If the bonding is on the front tooth, avoid biting on hard things to prevent damage.

• Material and quantity of the bonding materials

Too much or too little composite material on a tooth can cause issues and shorten the lifespan of your bonded tooth. Similarly, a better quality composite resin will definitely last longer than substandard materials. Make sure you work with an experienced dentist for long-lasting results.

• The condition of the bonded tooth

If your tooth only has minor damage, it will be able to hold on to the bonding materials much better. However, composite bonding might not hold as well on a significantly weak tooth.

• Lifestyle habits

As we've seen, the composite resin isn't as strong as your natural tooth's enamel. Damaging habits such as chewing ice, nail-biting, or teeth-grinding can cause the bonded tooth to get damaged much faster. Similarly, high consumption of highly pigmented items such as coffee, tea, red wine, food colors, and berries can stain your dental bonding.

• Oral hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential after getting a dental bonding. It will protect your bonded tooth from infections and staining caused by plaque and tartar.

How To Make Your Teeth Bonding Last Long?

Use these tips to lengthen the lifespan of your bonded tooth:

• Brush thoroughly and gently at least twice daily.
• Use a soft-bristled brush.
• Use non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily.
• Avoid hard and sticky items such as nuts, candy, and popcorn. If you must take them, avoid using the bonded tooth.
• Avoid highly colored items such as coffee, tea, red wine, and soda to prevent staining your smile.
• Avoid damaging habits such as chewing ice, nails, and pens or using your teeth as tools.
• Schedule regular dental exams and cleanings.
• Avoid smoking and other tobacco products.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
• Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic items.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Are you interested in composite bonding on teeth near you? Contact our dentist in Covina, Jeffrey L. Cohen, DDS, to book your appointment.