How Long Does Dental Bonding Last?
Dental bonding involves high tech, high quality composite materials, which are bonded to the surface of broken or marred teeth. It is a great cost effective option, and the quality cannot be matched for the price. If you are considering dental bonding, you will want to know a couple of things about it, namely; How long does dental bonding last?
Let’s start with the basics
What is Dental Bonding?
Dental Bonding is when a dentist attaches a composite tooth like material and adhesive to the root structure of a tooth. Often times the tooth in question has been chipped, cracked, or is horribly stained. Dental Bonding can either be direct composite, adhesive, or smile correcting.
Direct Composite- Material added and adhered directly to the tooth structure, replacing the tooth.
Smile Correcting- Material layered in a way to provide some support, but mainly aesthetic repair.
Adhesive Bonding- When a new dental crown or cap must be applied. Dental bonding is used to seal and set the implant.
What is the Dental Bonding Process?
You will see your dentist and consult on dental bonding. Your dentist will then perform a thorough cleaning and examination. Before bonding, it is important to understand what led to the tooth damage, and how serious the damage is. It would not make sense to apply dental bonding if the tooth root was in a state of decay.
If you and your dentist decide dental bonding is the way to go, they will prepare the materials they will need. They may apply a local anesthetic, in the instance that they need to drill or shave off some tooth material. After the area is dry, they will apply rubber inserts to isolate the tooth or teeth for bonding. Limiting moisture will help to keep the materials set and adhered. A small bit of an abrasive substance, like acid, will be added to the tooth in question. This is like when your scour a wall before added wallpaper, it helps the adhesive and keep the layering smooth. Your dentist can then remove the acid, add the composite and adhesive bonding, and shape the new tooth. After a short time, and maybe a high intensity curing lamp, the new tooth is set and ready to shine.
How do you care for Dental Bonding?
The same as any other tooth. You want to floss regularly, to get any trace of pulverized food particles. You want to brush and use mouthwash often. You also want to make follow up appointments and attend regular cleanings. Dental Bonding is still susceptible to bacteria and dental damage.
How long does dental bonding last?
It will all depend on how well you care for it. The materials used vary, so you will want to ask your dentist to give full details. You should also ask your dental hygienist during cleanings how youre doing with your dental hygiene routine, and how the bonded tooth looks. They will be a great resource to provide you detail on areas you may be missing, or early warnings for possible concerns. Dental Bondings can last you anywhere from 1 -15 years if properly treated.