Once you’ve had dental bonding to improve the appearance of your smile, it’s crucial to take steps to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your treatment. Dental bonding is a great way to correct chips, cracks, gaps, or discoloration in your teeth. However, like any dental procedure, it requires some care to ensure it remains in top condition.
In this post, we’ll explore the best practices for caring for your dental bonding to help you maintain your beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.
What is Dental Bonding?
Before we dive into the care tips, let’s quickly recap what dental bonding is. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin to your teeth, which is then hardened with a special light. It can be used for cosmetic purposes, such as closing gaps, reshaping teeth, or repairing damage, or for functional purposes like filling cavities.
Now that we know what dental bonding is, let’s talk about how to take care of it!
1. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
While dental bonding is durable, it’s not invincible. To protect the bonding material, it’s best to avoid eating hard or sticky foods like:
- Ice
- Hard candy
- Chewing gum
- Nuts
- Popcorn
These foods can cause the bonding material to chip or break. Sticky foods, like caramel, can also pull on the bonding and cause it to loosen. Opt for softer foods that won’t place excessive pressure on your bonded teeth.
2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Just because your teeth are bonded doesn’t mean you can skip your regular oral hygiene routine. In fact, it’s more important than ever to brush and floss regularly to avoid plaque buildup around the bonding area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush at least twice a day. Floss gently between your teeth to prevent gum disease and plaque accumulation, which can weaken the bonding over time.
Additionally, consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help kill bacteria and keep your mouth fresh.
3. Avoid Staining Substances
Dental bonding material is designed to match the color of your natural teeth. However, just like natural teeth, it can stain over time, especially if you regularly consume foods and drinks
If you enjoy these substances, it’s wise to brush your teeth afterward or at least rinse your mouth with water to minimize staining. If you’re a smoker, consider quitting, as tobacco can severely stain your dental bonding and affect its aesthetic appearance.
4. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
It’s tempting to open packages or bottles with your teeth, but this can put unnecessary pressure on your dental bonding. Using your teeth as tools can cause chips or cracks in the bonding material, which could require repairs. Always use scissors or proper tools to open packaging or break hard items.
5. Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Checkups
Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure that your bonding is still intact and functioning well. During these visits, your dentist can examine your dental bonding and make any necessary adjustments. At Sapphire Dental Centre, our team of professionals will check for any signs of wear or damage to your bonding and offer tips for further care.
6. Be Mindful of Your Teeth Grinding Habits
If you grind your teeth, also known as bruxism, you could be putting your dental bonding at risk. Teeth grinding can cause the bonding material to wear down or chip. If you’re prone to grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist about wearing a night guard to protect your dental bonding while you sleep.
7. Seek Prompt Treatment for Any Damage
While dental bonding is a long-lasting solution, it can still become damaged over time. If you notice any chips, cracks, or changes in the appearance of your bonded teeth, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Repairing any damage promptly will prevent it from worsening and help keep your smile looking great.
8. Consider Touch-Ups or Replacements
Dental bonding doesn’t last forever, and it may need to be replaced or touched up after several years. Over time, the resin material may become discolored, wear down, or lose its luster. Regular checkups with your dentist will help determine when it’s time for a touch-up or a complete replacement of the bonding.
In Conclusion
Dental bonding is an excellent option for enhancing the look of your smile, but it does require some care to ensure its longevity. By following these simple tips and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can extend the life of your dental bonding and keep your smile looking fresh and natural.
At Sapphire Dental Centre, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch dental care and personalized treatment plans for all our patients. If you have any questions about dental bonding or need assistance with maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.