Wondering how long dental bonding lasts? Our dentists in Burnaby reveal the answer — and explain how the process works, financial considerations and alternatives.
What is dental bonding?
To complete the dental bonding procedure, your dentist will apply tooth-coloured composite resin to the surfaces of your teeth, effectively repairing decay, fractures, discolouration or chips.
This material helps to fill gaps caused by a cavity and can help improve the appearance of your teeth. Bonding can also make your teeth appear longer, so if you compare the look of your teeth before and after dental bonding the appearance may change significantly,
How long does dental bonding last?
Typically, the effects of dental bonding can last for between 4 and 8 years, and potentially longer. How long your dental bonding will last depends on a few factors:
- How well you care for your teeth (by maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine including daily brushing and flossing)
- Which areas of your mouth are bonded
- Your dietary choices
- Whether you attend your regularly scheduled dental appointments (twice each year)
How well you care for your teeth plays a large role in determining how long your dental bonding will last. Avoid sugary or acidic foods, since these can wear on your teeth. Brush and floss your teeth after eating fruit so bacteria and plaque do not have the chance to grow and thrive.
Also avoid grinding your teeth, biting down too hard, or chewing hard candy or ice, all of which can chip your bonding material.
Of course, maintaining a thorough and consistent oral hygiene routine is key. The healthier the natural tooth material around the bonding material remains, the longer this 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 a 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.
Quick treatment: We can usually perform the procedure in just one visit.
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 come to us for 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)
