Did you have a minor flaw in your smile that you wanted fixed? Whether it was a stubborn stain, small chip, or a short gap, you might’ve gotten dental bonding as an effective solution. It doesn’t give a dramatic change, but it’s often noticeable enough that you may feel more confident about your smile afterward. You might want to help your results last as long as possible, so here are four tips to keep to.
Brush and Floss Every Day
A simple way you can keep your dental bonding in great shape is by having a good oral hygiene routine. You should brush twice a day to remove bacteria that can erode the tooth supporting the cosmetic work. Flossing once daily is crucial in properly cleaning out your smile, so you don’t develop any cavities, gum disease, and the like.
Limit Staining Foods
For the first few days after your treatment, your results are more prone to staining. You should avoid dark-colored foods and drinks to prevent any discoloration. It’s best to limit items like tomato sauce, coffee, berries, red wine, and soda as they all have pigments that can cause a yellow tint. If you do have them, then rinse with water to lower your risk of this flaw.
Break Bad Oral Habits
While dental bonding is made from high-quality materials, it can become damaged if you aren’t careful. The composite resin it’s made of can chip when you use your teeth as tools or eat hard foods. Not only that, but these habits can also damage your natural teeth, leading to new imperfections that leave you self-conscious! Simply adjust your diet or grab the right tool for the job; that way, you have nothing to worry about.
Get a Nightguard for Bruxism
If you tend to grind or clench your teeth at night, you should get a nightguard to protect your oral health and cosmetic results. The pressure from this habit can lead to your results breaking and worn enamel. Since this is often done subconsciously during sleep, it can be tricky to spot, but your dentist can notice the signs and give you an effective solution.
In the end, your provider is here to make your dental bonding last. Everything above is great to do at home, but they can monitor its condition and ensure it stays strong for years to come.
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Dean earned his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. He is dedicated to helping patients in Covington get the perfect smiles they love with a wide range of cosmetic dental treatments, like dental bonding. Dr. Dean will understand your grin goals, help you get to them, then work to make sure your results last. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call his office at 770-786-3915.