Ways to Keep Your Dental Bonding in Good Condition

Dental bonding is a popular restorative solution that we use for both children and adults. This is perhaps the least invasive type of restoration because it does not require us to remove the enamel from the surface of your teeth. Instead, we only roughen up your teeth, apply a moisturizing solution, and then place the bonding material on top of the tooth to be shaped and then hardened. The process requires the skilled hand of a cosmetic dentist to ensure the bonding looks natural. Other than that, it goes by fairly quickly and with little to no irritation of the actual tooth. It is also an affordable solution and one you should consider.

Dental bonding can be used for:

•     Closing small gaps in between teeth
•     Covering dark stains
•     Changing the size and shape of teeth
•     Restoring a tooth that has been cracked or chipped

Given the versatility of dental bonding and the convenience of the actual procedure, we recommend this option for a variety of patients. It is important to note, however, that bonding material is not as strong as a crown, and it does not last as long for many people. There are things you can do, however, to keep it in good shape for a longer period of time. Here are a few steps to try at home.

Watch what you eat. You can eat all of your favorite foods after the bonding procedure is complete. What you need to avoid is doing things like eating ice, chewing a hard nut, or biting down on pencils. Think about what you put in your mouth, and if it seems too hard, find another option. Also, you should avoid anything acidic since this can cause erosion on all your teeth – including the tooth with the bonding material on it.

Practice good oral hygiene. The bonding material is placed on top of your natural teeth, which means you can still get a cavity or infection in that tooth. Brush your teeth throughout the day, floss daily, and have your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year to reduce the risk. You should also drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth.

Do not grind your teeth. Nighttime grinding is fairly common, and while there are several reasons for this, many people experience more grinding when they are under high amounts of stress. We will look for signs of grinding during your dental exam, and if your jaw is typically sore in the morning, this could be a sign of it, as well. Wearing a night guard will prevent potential damage by not allowing your teeth to touch. Wearing one can prevent your natural teeth and the bonding material from cracking, chipping, or eroding.

Wear a mouthguard. Sports injuries are incredibly common in both children and adults. Most adults think that things like protective gear are only necessary for young kids. This is not the case. Sports injuries are a leading cause of tooth damage amongst adults, and wearing a mouthguard is a simple way to prevent this from happening to you.

For more tips and information, call and schedule a dental appointment.