How long does Composite Bonding last?

Broken, chipped, damaged, unhealthy, discoloured, or stained teeth can be a nightmare. You don’t smile in your pictures anymore.

(We know what the reason is why you suddenly started pouting in all your photos.)

You don’t smile back at people.

(Don’t say you didn’t see them smile at you.)

You are skipping events and gatherings.

(We understand it is impossible not to attract attention towards your ugly-looking teeth.) Your confidence hits an all-time low, just because you don’t have a picture-perfect smile.

But thank God for composite bonding.

Fixing your teeth — no matter what problem they have — is quick and easy.

So, is dental bonding a permanent solution?

How long does it last?

Will you have to visit your dentist frequently after the procedure?

Find answers to all these questions right here.

But before we tell you about how long composite bonding lasts, here’s a quick recap of…

What is Composite Bonding?

Composite bonding is the process of bonding your teeth with a tooth-colored resin.

It can be used:

• To repair decayed teeth,
• To fix chipped teeth,
• To hide discolouration or staining on your teeth,
• To fix fractures,
• To protect an exposed part of the teeth,
• To close the gap between teeth,
• To make your teeth look longer, and
• As an alternative to amalgam fillings.

Tooth bonding is a painless dental procedure that can be done in a single visit with the dentist. Composite bonding on one tooth takes between 30 and 60 minutes. It usually doesn’t require anaesthesia.

Dentists select a composite resin shade that closely matches the natural colour of your teeth. After the procedure, your teeth will look 100% natural. This gives no hints that you have undergone a cosmetic procedure.

Another benefit is that it suits almost everyone. No matter what cosmetic dental issue you have, composite dental bonding can fix that.

How Long Does Bonding Last?

Composite bonding lasts for 5 years on average. The material is not as hard as your natural teeth. It can wear down, chip off, break, or get stained. All these issues affect its lifespan.

However, it can last much longer than expected if you take care of it. Also, certain unhealthy eating and lifestyle habits can cause your dental bonding to wear away faster. Or require frequent repairs or touch-ups.

How long your composite bonding lasts also depends on certain other factors.

Those factors include:

1. The Location Of Your Dental Bonding

Bonding on the back of your teeth or on your side teeth is likely to last longer than composite bonding on your front teeth. This is because front teeth are more exposed and, therefore, more vulnerable to damage and discolouration.

2. The Type And Quantity Of Bonding Material Used

Better-quality composite resin will last longer. However, more is not always better when it comes to quantity. Too much or too little composite material can cause issues and require corrections. Trust only expert dentists for the procedure for long-lasting results.

3. The Health And Strength Of The Tooth Or Teeth On Which Bonding Is Applied

Strong, healthy teeth can hold bonding for much longer. If your teeth are weak, the composite may not hold well and can chip or break.

4. Your Lifestyle And Habits

Not taking care of your teeth, consuming foods and drinks harmful to dental health, and habits like nail-biting or teeth-gritting can cause your bonding to be damaged much faster.

How To Make Your Teeth Bonding Last Long?

How long your teeth bonding lasts is largely (if not entirely) under your control.

You can take the following steps to make sure it lasts longer (over a decade):

• Brush twice a day. With regular brushing, you can make sure staining and decay-causing food items don’t stay stuck in your teeth. Remember to use non-abrasive toothpaste that contains fluoride and soft-bristled brushes.
• Use the right flossing technique to floss regularly. If you aren’t sure about the right technique, a word with our professionals will clear up any doubts.
• Professional cleanings and regular dental checkups can help identify bonding issues (if any) early. This also gives you time to fix what you are doing wrong and get expert advice. This would directly help extend the life of your composite bonding.
• Avoid chewing hard items (like candies, ice cubes, or your fingernails) with the bonded part of your teeth. Chewing hard items creates pressure on your bonded teeth and can cause the bonding to chip or break. Also, don’t open food packets with your teeth.
• Coffee, tea, red wine, curry, and other items stain your teeth. Avoid them. If you cannot entirely avoid having such items, make sure you rinse your mouth after consuming these items so that they don’t stain your teeth. Drinking teeth-staining beverages with a metal straw will also help.
• Stop smoking and chewing tobacco. These are detrimental to your oral and general health and have an extremely adverse effect on your bonded teeth. Quit chewing on your pen cap and biting your fingernails. Also, try to cut down on sugary and acidic foods and beverages.
• With the right precautions, your dental bonding can last over ten years. This will give you a sparkling smile and the confidence to take on the challenges of the world.

Begin Your Journey Towards A Beautiful Smile Today

Dental bonding is a suitable dental procedure for altering the appearance of your teeth, fixing minor cosmetic flaws, and covering broken, stained, or chipped teeth. Depending on your situation, the results you are hoping for, and your budget, expert dentists at Natural Smiles will help you decide whether composite bonding is right for you.

We’ll make sure you understand everything about the procedure and how to make your bonding last longer. If you have any questions, get in touch with our team. And don’t wait any longer. Start your journey towards a beautiful smile today.