Wondering how long dental bonding lasts? Our dentists in Winnipeg answer this question and others about how the process works, financial considerations and alternatives.
What is dental bonding?
Tooth-coloured composite resin is applied to the surfaces of your teeth during the dental bonding process, effectively repairing fractures, discolouration, chips or decay.
A cavity can leave gaps in a tooth that this material can be used to fill. Dental bonding can also improve the appearance of your teeth, making them appear longer. Needless to say, you may see a significant difference in the appearance of your teeth after dental bonding.
How long does dental bonding last?
The effects of a dental bonding procedure can last between 4 and 8 years, and potentially longer, depending on a few factors including:
- Your dietary choices
- Which areas of your mouth are bonded
- How well your teeth are cared for (a rigorous oral hygiene routine including daily brushing and flossing is needed)
- Whether you attend regularly scheduled dental appointments (twice each year)
How well you care for your teeth greatly factors into how long your dental bonding lasts. Avoid sugary or acidic foods since these can wear on your teeth. If you eat fruit, brush and floss your teeth soon after so bacteria and plaque do not have an opportunity to develop.
And of course, maintaining a consistent and thorough oral hygiene routine is of utmost importance. The healthier the natural tooth material around the bonding material remains, the longer the restoration will last.
What are the benefits of dental bonding?
If you choose dental bonding to improve the appearance of your smile, you may experience the following benefits:
Changes appearance of teeth: Dental bonding can help adjust the colour and shape of your teeth for symmetrical, cohesive look.
Non-invasive: As far as cosmetic treatments go, dental bonding is relatively non-invasive and you won't require any recovery time.
Cost-effective: Dental bonding is generally considered to be a cost-effective alternative to more extensive cosmetic dental procedures such as crowns, bridges and veneers.
Long-lasting: As long as you care for your smile properly, you can expect the effects of dental bonding to last for 4 to 8 years, or longer in some cases.
What does dental bonding cost?
Patients who have dental bonding procedures are often concerned about cost. Your specific cost will depend on a few factors:
- The number of teeth being repaired
- Scope of work, location and size of the areas of the mouth being bonded
- Your location – costs may change depending on which city and dental practice performs the procedure
- How much of the procedure is covered by insurance (this may depend on whether your issue is primarily structural or cosmetic)