How Long Does Composite Bonding Last?

Composite bonding is a hugely popular cosmetic dental treatment these days and one of our most commonly performed procedures here at The Modern Dentist.

It's non-invasive (or minimally invasive), cost-effective, and the actual treatment is often carried out in a single visit, and can completely transform a smile, so it's a very attractive prospect for anyone considering cosmetic improvements to their smile.

It works by using a bonding agent to bond a composite resin material to natural tooth structure.

The composite resin mimics tooth structure incredibly well so can be used in cosmetic treatments to make changes and achieve the desired shape and colour of the new teeth.

It can be used in anything from a chipped tooth or small gap to a complete smile transformation.

But one of the biggest questions people have about it is how long it lasts.

How Long Does Composite Bonding Typically Last?

Dentists typically tell patients to expect composite bonding to last about 5-7 years, but this is a bit of a meaningless figure, based on averages.

In fact, with most cases, a good cosmetic dentist should be able to predict roughly how long the composite bonding will last before needing to be replaced, but also give you the right advice for making it last longer.

How Long Does Composite Bonding Typically Last?

Dentists typically tell patients to expect composite bonding to last about 5-7 years, but this is a bit of a meaningless figure, based on averages.

In fact, with most cases, a good cosmetic dentist should be able to predict roughly how long the composite bonding will last before needing to be replaced, but also give you the right advice for making it last longer.

Factors That Affect Composite Bonding Longevity

There are several factors that determine how long the bonding will last.

The two most important are how well the treatment is carried out by the dentist and how well it's looked after by the patient.

Dentist's Skill

Composite bonding involves applying composite resin directly to teeth.

If the dentist leaves any tiny voids within the composite, or allows any contamination of the bonding process by saliva or blood, for example, these areas will stain quite quickly.

The most common place for these stains to occur is at the margins where composite reaches the junction of the tooth and gum, and in between the teeth, where it requires a lot of skill from the dentist to avoid issues.

If the composite is not very highly polished, it will lose its lustre and shine over time, and will start to look dull and pick up stains.

Damage At Night

Composite is not as hard as enamel so can be much more prone to breaking and chipping than real teeth.

Most of this damage tends to happen at night time, when we're unable to prevent ourselves from grinding and clenching.

Most people will grind and clench from time to time, but some people do it constantly.

If you have an overjet or space between your upper and lower front teeth when you close together, you're less likely to damage the composite by grinding and clenching, but if your upper and lower teeth are in contact or very close together when you close, then you're much more susceptible to damage from what happens when you're asleep.

Dr. Mark Flynn

Aftercare

Just like teeth, composite bonding is susceptible to damage from poor oral health, such as a diet rich in acids and sugars or poor oral hygiene.

The margins where composite meets the teeth will be attacked by plaque and acids and will start to break down and discolour.

Good oral hygiene habits are essential to making the composite bonding last.

A good electric toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste (preferably whitening toothpaste), and flossing and/or interdental brushing are the best ways to keep the bonding intact and looking beautiful.

Signs That Your Composite Bonding Needs Replacement

When your composite starts to look tired, it may need either touched up or replaced.

If you just have a small chip or stain, it may be possible to repair without completely overhauling the treatment.

But if the composite no longer matches your own teeth, looks generally worn, dull or discoloured, then it may be time to look at replacing it, either with new bonding, or possibly something more robust, like veneers.

If previously smooth edges have begun to become rough, this should always be checked out by a dentist.

If your teeth have started to become sensitive where you've had composite bonding in the past, you should see your dentist to investigate for possible issues.

How to Make Composite Bonding Last Longer?

The best way to make composite bonding last longer is to take great care of it; even more so than how you care for your own teeth, since it's not as strong or robust.

• Don't ever bite your nails with composite, or use it as a tool for opening or cutting things.

• Avoid frequent consumption of acids and sugars.

• Preferably, wear a night guard after composite bonding.

Even if you don't habitually grind or clench, everyone does from time to time and having a crash helmet covering the teeth should prevent the bonding from getting smashed up.

• Maintain good oral health.

Use a good electric toothbrush, such as a Philips Sonicare, floss regularly and use interdental brushes.

Composite Bonding vs Veneers: Which Lasts Longer?

Porcelain is a much harder substance than composite so will stand up to more stress and abuse.

But with good care, composite bonding can last for many years without showing any signs of wear and tear, but it all comes down to good care.

Is Composite Bonding Worth It?

Composite bonding done well is a beautiful way to correct and enhance your smile.

And if you take good care of it, you'll get to enjoy the benefits for many years.