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Dental bonding can be a fast and affordable way to hide imperfections in teeth. It is also impressively durable; it may last for several years! However, if you want your bonding to live up to its potential, you need to take good care of it. Here are some easy tips to help it stand the test of time:
Keep Up with Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene can reduce staining on your bonding and protect the integrity of nearby oral tissues, such as your teeth and gums. You should:
- Brush twice a day. Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive gel toothpaste. Move the brush in gentle, circular motions, and be sure to clean well along your gumline.
- Floss daily. Floss is essential for removing plaque and food debris from the tight spaces between your teeth.
- Drink plenty of water. This encourages saliva production and helps to rinse away unwanted particles.
Do Not Bite Down on Hard Objects
Bonding is pretty tough, but it can break if you apply too much force to it. Therefore, you should not use your bonded teeth to bite down on anything hard. For example, you should not chew on pen caps, bite directly into whole apples, or munch on hard candies.
Eat a Reasonable Diet
Similar to natural tooth enamel, bonding can become stained if it is repeatedly exposed to pigmented foods and beverages. Therefore, you should try to limit your consumption of things like coffee, tea, and dark berries. Of course, you should still be sure to include lots of nutrients in your diet so you can support the health of your teeth and gums.
Wear a Mouthguard if Necessary
If you play sports, you should certainly wear a mouthguard. Without it, one unfortunate blow to your mouth could break your dental bonding, or worse, damage your teeth! Custom mouthguards tend to be more effective than over-the-counter options.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and similar products are terrible for oral health. They can also quickly cause dental bonding to become discolored. If you are struggling to quit these habits, your primary care physician may be able to provide helpful resources.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
It is a good practice to visit your dentist twice a year for a checkup. In addition to examining your teeth and gums, they can also let you know whether your dental bonding is still in good shape. They may be able to repair minor imperfections so it can continue to function well.
Dental bonding can serve you well for years — but only if you take good care of it. Use the tips in this article to preserve your smile’s health and beauty.
Meet the Practice
Throughout his decades-long career in holistic dentistry, Dr. George Keanna has helped countless patients to discover new confidence in their smiles. If you are interested in improving your oral health or simply enhancing your appearance, he and our team would be pleased to serve you. To request a consultation, contact our Albuquerque office at 505-292-8533.