There are many benefits to dental bonding wilmington nc compared to other procedures, such as affordability, the fact that less of your enamel is removed, and that the procedure can generally be completed in one visit. One of the biggest drawbacks to dental bonding, however, is their longevity. Unlike porcelain veneers, which are more resilient and can last between 10 to 15 years or longer, dental bonding is more prone to chipping and typically lasts 3-10 years.
There are several factors that can impact how long dental bonding will last, one of the most important being self-care. The longevity of your dental bond will also be determined in part by the area where the bonding occurs. Patients who have a malocclusion or tendency to grind their teeth are more likely to break down the bonding faster than those who do not. To help prolong the longevity of your dental bonding and avoid issues like staining or chipping, follow these special care guidelines:
- Cut down or eliminate red wine, tea, and coffee. If you do drink these beverages, try to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth soon after doing so.
- Stop/avoid use of tobacco. Tobacco use is one of the quickest ways to stain your dental bonding. If you have been looking for an excuse to quit, preserving the integrity and appearance of your dental bonding is a fantastic reason to do so! In addition to enjoying a bright, healthy smile, you will also significantly reduce your risk of developing other health issues commonly attributed to tobacco use.
- Be careful what types of foods you eat and avoid bad habits, such as biting your nails, using your teeth to open packages, or regularly chewing on things like hard candy, the end of your pencil, or ice. This is especially important for the first few days following your dental bonding procedure, but in general it is important to minimize the amount of exertion placed on the dental bond as much as possible. For patients who clench their teeth or have TMJ, it is recommended to wear a nightguard.
By following these self-care guidelines, you will prolong the lifespan of your dental bond and continue to enjoy good oral health. Neglecting to care for your teeth, however, will diminish the lifespan of your dental bonding and increase the chance of a cavity forming near the dental bonding site, which may require a crown to be placed.
Replacing Your Dental Bonding
Although following good daily oral hygiene habits and avoiding things like smoking, drinking coffee, or chewing on your fingernails or other hard objects will prolong the lifespan of your dental bonding, eventually it will be necessary to replace them. If you begin to notice lifted or sharp edges on your bonding, this may be an indication that your dental bonding needs to be replaced. Another indication that your bonding needs to be replaced is if you notice a change in your bite, which can indicate that your bonding has loosened. If any of these signs develop, contact your dentist to schedule an examination.
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