Dental bonding is a versatile solution that can be used to mask or mend aesthetic issues like cracks, chips, discoloration, or slightly gapped teeth. By addressing these flaws, you can upgrade your smile and enhance your appearance all at the same time.
The procedure can often be completed in a single, hour-long appointment with your dentist making this a highly efficient treatment. Plus, the results can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years! If you’d like to keep your pearly whites looking perfect, continue reading for 4 tips for caring for your dental bonding!
Tip #1: Establish At-Home Habits
One of the simplest and most effective ways to preserve your smile is by implementing consistent dental hygiene habits at home. You should brush and floss twice daily to remove bacteria and plaque buildup that contribute to oral issues like tooth decay and gum disease. By cleaning your mouth thoroughly, you can keep your grin as healthy as it is beautiful.
Tip #2: Drink More Water
Dental bonding is a resilient material that is only somewhat resistant to stains, meaning that it can become tainted over time. If you regularly enjoy dark foods and beverages like berries, coffee, soda, or wine then your teeth are likely to become discolored.
Why not reach for water, instead? Drinking more H2O, especially after meals, gets rid of any unwanted particles that might try to stick around. This can prevent surface stains that can leave your teeth looking worse for wear.
Furthermore, water has a neutral pH balance that can counteract any abrasive acids from certain foods and/or harmful bacteria to avoid enamel erosion that leads to cavities.
Tip #3: Watch What You Eat
While some foods can stain your dental bonding, others are known to chip, crack, or otherwise damage it. Some options to steer clear from include hard foods like popcorn, meat with bones, or ice because they’re overly hard and can cause physical injury. Others, like candies and sweets, contain sugar which attracts toxic germs that cause tooth decay and periodontal problems. By choosing more wholesome snacks, you can keep your smile in good condition.
Tip #4: Schedule Routine Checkups
Visiting your dentist every 6 months is an essential component of preventative care. They’ll be able to spot any potential areas of concern, like weakening enamel or dental bonding, before it can progress to the point where it becomes a real problem. Not only that but they include an oral cancer screening and professional cleaning in your appointment so you can trust that your grin is protected in every possible way.
By making a few slight adjustments, you can keep your dental bonding looking and feeling great for years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Howard has 37+ years of experience helping patients enhance the quality of their lives by improving their oral health. He graduated in 1986 from the UCLA School of Dentistry and then completed a one-year General Practice Residency at the V.A. Medical Center in West Los Angeles. Now, he’s an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, making him a trusted expert who can rebuild your smile. Whether you have decayed teeth or simply want to improve your appearance, he has solutions to meet your needs. If you’re interested in dental bonding, you’re welcome to request a consultation on the website or by calling (760) 599-6559.