Dental bonding is a cosmetic procedure that uses a tooth-colored material to repair chips, cracks, discoloration, or close small gaps between teeth. This process involves applying a composite resin directly to the tooth surface, which is then shaped and hardened to improve appearance. The main concern for many considering this treatment is how well the material will hold up over time and whether it is prone to breaking easily.
The Strength of Composite Resin
The composite resin used in dental bonding is a strong material, though it is not as hard as natural tooth enamel. The material is a blend of a plastic-like matrix reinforced with inorganic filler particles like glass, quartz, or silica. These filler particles are added to increase the material’s strength, hardness, and resistance to wear.
The structure of this composite gives it enough strength to withstand the daily pressures of chewing, especially when used on front teeth which experience lower bite forces. However, the elastic modulus, which measures stiffness, is typically only about half that of natural tooth enamel. This difference means the bonding is more susceptible to fracture or chipping when subjected to high-impact forces or excessive stress.
A proper bond to the natural tooth structure is also a factor in the overall durability of the restoration. The resin is bonded to the prepared tooth surface, creating a mechanical and chemical lock. The long-term success depends on the quality of this adhesion, which can be affected by the dentist’s application technique.
Habits That Lead to Chipping and Damage
While the composite material is durable, specific patient habits can exert stress that exceeds the material’s failure point, leading to breakage. Biting down on hard objects is one of the most common causes of damage, as the sudden, concentrated force can crack or chip the resin. This includes chewing on ice, hard candies, popcorn kernels, pens, or fingernails.
Using teeth as tools, such as tearing open packages or cutting threads, also places undue stress on the bonded areas. These actions can quickly cause the composite material to fail.
Parafunctional habits, like chronic teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism), are a significant risk factor for damaging dental bonding. Bruxism creates constant, intense force that gradually wears away the composite or causes stress fractures. Additionally, sudden, extreme temperature changes, such as alternating between very hot coffee and ice-cold water, can cause the bonding material to expand and contract at a different rate than the natural tooth, potentially leading to cracks.
Extending the Life of Your Tooth Bonding
Protecting the bonded teeth from excessive force is the most direct way to maximize the lifespan of the restoration, which can typically last between five and ten years.
Protection from Force
If a person grinds their teeth at night, a custom-fitted mouthguard or nightguard is a necessary preventative measure. This appliance acts as a physical barrier, distributing the intense pressure from bruxism away from the bonded material.
Dietary Maintenance
Dietary considerations also play a role in maintenance. Highly acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits and sodas, can gradually degrade the resin material. Minimizing the consumption of these items, or rinsing the mouth with water afterward, helps neutralize the acids and protect the composite.
Professional Care
Regular dental checkups and professional cleanings are important for monitoring the condition of the bonding. During these visits, the dentist examines the restoration for small cracks or signs of wear. Professional polishing can also be performed to maintain the shine and smoothness of the composite material, which helps resist staining and premature breakdown.