Composite bonding is an excellent cosmetic dentistry treatment that can quickly and affordably solve some dental issues, such as small gaps between teeth or unsightly damaged or discoloured teeth. However, as with many treatments, the better you look after your composite bonding, the longer it will last. In general, composite bonding work can last anywhere between 5 and 10 years, so optimise the success of your treatment and look after your teeth.
Aftercare Instructions and Tips for Composite Bonding
Here at Boutique Dental 23, we will always give our clients detailed instructions for the aftercare of their composite bonding dental work. However, if you want to know how much aftercare is required before your treatment or need extra advice, you can read about how to look after your composite bonding. The better you care for your newly bonded teeth, the longer they will last.
Immediate Post-Treatment Care
While one of the fantastic elements of composite bonding is the lack of recovery time needed afterwards, the bonding still takes a few days to settle and harden fully. So, it is wise to be extra careful of your teeth and the composite resin in the days following your bonding treatment.
Avoiding hard or sticky foods
In the first few days, the bonding can be more porous and easily chipped, so avoiding foods that could potentially damage it is sensible.
Practising good oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene is something that we always advocate, not just in the days immediately following your composite bonding treatment. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush. A stiff toothbrush could damage the dental bonding, so use the correct toothbrush. Flossing is also an excellent habit for good oral hygiene, as this will remove food from areas where brushing alone cannot reach.
Being mindful of habits that may damage bonding
Habits such as grinding teeth and chewing your nails or pen are bad for your teeth. Your composite will be more susceptible to being damaged by these habits, so now is an excellent time to try to break these bad habits.
Long-Term Maintenance for Composite Bonding
Regular dental check-ups
We always recommend regular check-ups, but ensure your new bonded teeth are checked out regularly.
Touch-up appointments, if necessary
If there is damage, a quick touch-up is always better than waiting until the dental bonding work needs to be completely redone. Keep an eye on your dental bonding, and let us know if anything is amiss.
Protecting against staining
Certain foods and drinks, like coffee or red wine, can stain your teeth. Be mindful of consuming these, as the composite is more prone to staining than your teeth.
Additional Aftercare Tips for Optimal Results
Using a mouthguard during sports or teeth grinding
If you play contact sports or sports with a high risk of injury, a mouthguard is an excellent way to protect your teeth. We can fit you a made-to-measure one, or you can buy a standard one and mould it to fit your teeth at home.
Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are bad for you, full stop. Even reducing the amount of smoke or drink is beneficial. If you are struggling to quit, speak to your GP, as they can help you.
Following your dentist’s specific instructions
Our mouths are different, and your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to look after your new teeth. Follow the instructions given to you by your dentist, as this will help to keep your dental work in good condition for many years to come.
Common Questions About Composite Bonding
1. What can you do after composite bonding?
Anything! There is no lengthy recovery period after a dental bonding treatment. However, it is advisable to avoid hard or sticky food immediately afterwards, as well as alcohol and tobacco, which can stain the composite.
2. What not to do after bonding?
Don’t go straight out and start drinking and smoking. Avoid chewing on hard food and habitual chewing, such as nails or pen lids.
3. How long after composite bonding can I eat?
You can eat a few hours after your dental bonding treatment, but remember to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the composite resin.
4. Can I brush my teeth after composite bonding?
Brushing your teeth is extremely important, as good oral hygiene is a large part of bonding aftercare. Ensure you brush your teeth with a soft toothbrush, as a medium or hard one will be too harsh on the composite.
5. Can you go back to regular teeth after composite bonding?
This dental bonding work does not damage the underlying teeth; consequently, removing the composite is possible. This can be useful if you are seeking an alternative dental treatment. Your dentist can safely remove the composite bonding from your teeth.
6. Why do my teeth hurt after composite bonding?
Your teeth may be a little sensitive after the dental bonding treatment. Avoiding very hot or cold food and drinks will help if this is the case.
7. How long do teeth hurt after bonding?
You should only experience this sensitivity for a few days at the most. If your teeth are still sore, or you have concerns, please contact your dentist.
Here at Boutique Dental 23, we offer our clients an experienced and friendly service. We will explain the treatment and how to look after your newly bonded teeth. Look at our composite bonding page to learn more about how this cosmetic dentistry could help you. Or to book your appointment with our knowledgable and helpful dental team, simply call us on 01942 727465.
