Is your child struggling with minor dental flaws in their permanent teeth? One of the most cost-effective and convenient ways to fix their smile is dental bonding. With this cosmetic treatment, they can conceal small imperfections like chipped, stained, or misshapen teeth to create more appealing pearly whites. However, you’ll likely want to know if this procedure provides a permanent solution for your child’s smile. Read on to learn what to expect from the lifespan of dental bonding and how you can help prolong the results!
How Long Does Cosmetic Dental Bonding Last?
Dental bonding is a quick and affordable method to enhance the appearance of teeth. While the results are reliable and enduring, you won’t expect it to be a permanent solution for your child’s smile. The bonding material can typically last anywhere from 5 to 10 years before it becomes worn down and needs a touch-up. The lifetime of the results will also depend on how well your child takes care of their gums and teeth. They’ll need to practice solid oral hygiene, avoid poor habits (like chewing ice, biting their nails, or using their teeth as tools), and visit their dentist routinely to make the most of their new and beautiful smile.
3 Factors That Influence Dental Bonding Lifespan
Your child’s oral hygiene and diet are two main aspects that can drastically affect the life of their dental bonding. Here are three other important factors you’ll need to consider:
- Location of the bonding: If the bonding is sculpted on the front of their teeth or at the edge of a tooth, then it may be more likely to chip, crack, or get damaged.
- A misaligned bite: Composite resin isn’t as durable as natural enamel, so an imperfect bite can end up placing too much pressure on the structure of your child’s tooth. This will cause the dental bonding to wear down quickly.
- Teeth grinding: Does your child grind their teeth when sleeping? If so, make sure to ask their dentist about custom-made nightguards to prevent wearing down their smile. If left unchecked, they may accidentally damage their cosmetic results as well as risk tooth sensitivity, jaw discomfort, and tooth cracking.
Ways to Preserve Your Results
Once your child has received dental bonding on their permanent teeth, you can help them maintain their new smile by encouraging the following practices:
- Avoid biting on hard candy, crunchy chips, or ice cubes.
- Keep clear of dark-colored foods and drinks (like coffee, sodas, and soy sauce) that can stain.
- Refrain from using teeth as tools, like opening packages or cracking open nuts.
- Brush twice a day and floss at least once daily (or after every meal).
- Visit the dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings.
Although dental bonding isn’t permanent, you can expect the results to be enduring and reliable. Keep these few tips in mind, and you can help your child make the most of their enhanced teeth for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Donna Barefield earned her dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry. She’s also a proud member of several prestigious organizations like the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. She offers a wide variety of high-quality and comprehensive treatments, including dental bonding. If you’d like to schedule a consultation for your child, visit her website or call 972-298-7560.