Posted on 11/3/2025 by Durham Prosthodontics Office
Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can enhance the appearance of your smile. It is a versatile treatment that can be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, and even change the shape or size of your teeth.
Unlike crowns or veneers, dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that requires little to no removal of tooth structure. The composite resin material used in bonding is applied directly to the tooth and sculpted into the desired shape. Once the resin is cured with a special light, it hardens and becomes a durable restoration.
While dental bonding is a relatively simple and affordable procedure, it is important to take proper care of your bonded teeth to ensure they last for many years. Here are some tips on how to care for dental bonding:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The most important thing you can do to care for your dental bonding is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing daily, and using mouthwash.
It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching or damaging the bonding material. When flossing, be gentle and avoid pulling or snapping the floss.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Dental bonding material is porous, which means it can absorb stains from certain foods and drinks. To avoid staining, it is best to limit your consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits and vegetables.
If you do consume these items, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards to remove any staining agents. You may also want to consider using a straw when drinking these beverages to minimize contact with your bonded teeth.
Limit Hard and Sticky Foods
Dental bonding is not as strong as natural tooth enamel, so it is important to avoid biting down on hard or sticky foods. This can cause the bonding to chip or break.
Some examples of foods to avoid include hard candies, nuts, ice, and chewy candy. If you do eat these foods, be sure to cut them into smaller pieces before biting down.
Avoid Grinding Your Teeth
If you grind your teeth, you are at an increased risk of damaging your dental bonding. Grinding can put excessive stress on the bonding material, causing it to chip or crack.
If you are a teeth grinder, it is important to wear a nightguard to protect your teeth and bonding from damage. Your dentist can provide you with a custom-fitted nightguard.
See Your Dentist Regularly
It is important to see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, even if you have dental bonding. This will allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your bonding and make sure it is in good shape.
Your dentist may also recommend that you have your bonding polished on a regular basis. This will help to remove any surface stains and keep your bonding looking its best.
Conclusion
Dental bonding is a great way to improve the appearance of your smile. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your bonding lasts for many years to come.
About Durham Prosthodontics | Durham, NC Durham Prosthodontics specializes in advanced restorative and cosmetic dental treatments, including implants and bridges. Schedule your consultation today! Dr. Geoffrey Cunningham and Dr. Kyle Gazdeck, 3709 University Dr Suite D, Durham, NC 27707 + (919) 489-8661 + mydurhamdentist.com + 11/21/2025 + Page Terms:dental implants Durham NC +
Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can enhance the appearance of your smile. It is a versatile treatment that can be used to repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between teeth, and even change the shape or size of your teeth.