How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?
Dental bonding is a versatile cosmetic dentistry treatment that conceals a wide range of aesthetic flaws, including dental stains, discoloration, gapped teeth, as well as minor chips, cracks, and fractures. Dental bonding is a popular treatment option because it offers a fast, affordable, and non-invasive solution to dental imperfections.
Dr. Eugene D. Stanislaus and Dr. Lisa Reid of Brooklyn Heights Dental are frequently asked by patients, “How long does dental bonding last?” Here, we discuss the average lifespan of dental bonding and suggest oral care practices that help our Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn, and Fort Greene, patients prolong the results of dental bonding treatment.
Dental Bonding Treatment
Dental bonding is a non-invasive cosmetic dentistry treatment that enhances the appearance of the smile without permanently altering the natural tooth structure. During a dental bonding procedure, the exterior of the treated tooth is lightly etched to create a surface that easily adheres to the dental bonding compound. The compound is applied and shaped directly to the teeth to conceal blemishes while enhancing the tooth’s size, shape, or color. When desired results are achieved, a dental light hardens the dental compound and completes the bonding process. The entire process usually takes under an hour.
Average Dental Bonding Results
Dental bonding instantly enhances the teeth to give patients the white, uniform, attractive smile they desire. The dental compound applied to the teeth during treatment is bonded in place like cement. Although the dental compound is susceptible to damage, it is built to withstand the usual wear and tear of biting and chewing. On average, dental bonding results last at least three years and upwards of 10 years.
Prolonging Dental Bonding Results
The lifespan of dental bonding results depends largely on how many teeth are treated and how the teeth are cared for after treatment. We recommend these oral care practices to preserve dental bonding materials and maximize the lifespan of treatment results:
- Brush the teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly
- Schedule dental exams and cleanings at least twice a year
- Limit the consumption of foods that are especially hard, crunchy, chewy, or sticky
- Refrain from using the teeth as tools or biting on non-food objects
- Avoid teeth grinding and clenching
What Can I Do When Dental Bonding Wears Off?
Even with the best care, dental bonding is not meant to last forever. Eventually, the dental compound wears down and reveals the natural teeth beneath. Fortunately, dental bonding treatment can easily be repeated to conceal imperfections and enhance the beauty of the smile. If more extensive cosmetic flaws are present or more significant structural damage has developed, patients can consider alternate dental treatments, such as dental fillings, dental crowns, or porcelain veneers.
Contact Us
If minor imperfections are preventing you from enjoying your best smile, you may be an ideal candidate for dental bonding treatment. If you’d like to learn more about the dental bonding procedure or the results you can expect from the treatment, we invite you to schedule an appointment at Brooklyn Heights Dental. To get started, call our dental office at (718) 857-6639.