Dental bonding is one of the popular restorative options because it is the minimally invasive type yet delivers several benefits. You can rely on it for covering dark stains, closing gaps between teeth, and changing their shape and size. The best part is that it does not require the removal of the enamel from the tooth surface. Instead, the specialist places the bonding material to be shaped and hardened. The treatment ensures whiter teeth and a beautiful smile without orthodontics. While the skill of your cosmetic dentist is the mainstay of a good outcome with dental bonding, you can do your bit to prolong the results. Here are some expert-recommended tips to make the restoration last.
Invest in good oral hygiene
Nothing matters more than following an optimal daily oral hygiene routine when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. It also extends the lifespan of dental bonding, so you must be extra diligent after the treatment. Stick to the basics like brushing twice a day, flossing properly, and keeping up with regular appointments. At the same time, get checked if you notice unusual symptoms or problems.
Avoid biting your fingernails
Biting your nails is a bad habit, and it is even worse for your dental bonding. The actions put undue stress on your teeth and may damage the dental bond, even to the extent of breaking it prematurely. You will require a dentist’s intervention to address the damage. Commit to ditching the habit for good. Try measures like choosing an alternative stress reliever, such as exercise or journaling, and wearing gloves at home. Also, steer clear of chewing hard foods and objects like pens and pencils.
Take the recommended precautions
Your dentist will have some precautions and recommendations after the procedure. Besides the usual ones, they may suggest a few more according to your condition and needs. Commit to following them religiously throughout the recovery after dental bonding and later. Your restoration can last for years or even up to a decade if you stay true to the instructions and precautions.
Minimize consumption of stain-causing beverages
Besides skipping hard and crunchy foods, you must also minimize the consumption of beverages that may stain your teeth and restorations. Dental bonding is made of resin material, which can stain like natural enamel. Stain-causing beverages such as coffee, tea, and wine are better to keep off-limits after the procedure. You can swap them with healthy alternatives like green tea. Brushing and flossing after every cup are vital if you cannot stay off your morning and evening coffee.
Skip the cigarettes and cigars
Smoking can harm your health in more than one way, and it is also detrimental to dental bonding. Cigarettes and cigars produce toxic smoke that can cause discoloration of the resin composite of dental bonding. You have one more valid reason to cut them out for good, so give up sooner than later. Also, avoid chewing tobacco products because they are worse than the smoke.
Conclusion
Dental bonding is an investment in your smile and confidence, so you must do your best to preserve it over the years. You can follow these simple tips to make it last as long as possible.