Some Disadvantages to Teeth Bonding
The Facts of Teeth Bonding
Teeth bonding can be a quick and inexpensive solution to repair chipped or broken teeth, which involves using a composite material for the affected tooth. While this practice does have its benefits, there are also disadvantages to tooth bonding that may outshine any possible advantages. For that reason, here are some facts about bonding versus veneers, crowns, and other options, all of which should be thoroughly discussed with your dentist before deciding.
- The material used for teeth bonding is not as durable, being made of a plastic called composite resin. While the material is strong, it is not as durable as regular tooth enamel and not as hardy as the porcelain used in veneers and crowns.
- After receiving the bond, you have to be careful about biting into hard foods to avoid breaking or chipping the bond. Some warning signs are if the bond starts to feel jagged or any uneven, at which time you should call your dentist to have a look at it. It may need to be filed down or replaced.
- Bonds also do not last as long because they are not as resilient as some alternatives and therefore have shorter shelf lives. They usually last three to seven years compared to the 40-year crown. Oral health is also a major factor in determining the lifespan of the bond.
- Bonds are also not as stain resistant. Composite resin is more porous than enamel or porcelain, and it absorbs deep-colored food or beverages more easily. Regular coffee and wine drinkers must beware. Limiting darker color food and beverages is the easiest way to avoid staining the resin. While you do not need to give them up completely, you must be diligent about oral care. Brushing twice a day with whitening toothpaste can help maintain the bond’s color.
Some of these disadvantages can be a deal breaker for some, and if you find that the drawbacks outweigh the positives, there are always other options. Crowns are great for broken teeth or if a tooth has too large of a cavity to correct with a filling.
If your concern is fixing discolored teeth or changing the shape or alignment of crooked teeth, veneers are another solution. They are usually made of porcelain and are attached to the front of regular teeth.
Choosing between bonding and other options is a matter of choice, cost, and convenience. Bonding is more delicate than crowns or veneers, but it is also less expensive. Talk with a dentist to decide what is best for you. Remember you can always sign up for our New Hampshire Individual Discount Dental Plan to save as much as 20 percent on all your dental bills. For more information, please click here.
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