How long does it take dental bonding to get stained? Can coffee and tea stain my new dental bonding within two weeks? I just got the bonding and didn’t know I needed to stop drinking coffee and tea. Could toothpaste like Supersmile help, or should I quit drinking coffee and tea altogether? I wish my dentist had told me what to expect. Thanks. Chelsea from NJ
Chelsea,
How Soon Does Dental Bonding Stain?
Dental bonding attracts stains over time but not within two weeks. Bonding can last three to ten years depending on its quality maintenance and how well you take care of it. If a dentist lacks proficiency in cosmetic dentistry, you can experience premature staining. We will explain.
Dental Bonding Properties
Dentists apply a composite mixture of plastic resin and inorganic fillers to your teeth. Fillers may be glass, silica, or quartz of different sizes, yielding varying results.
- Hybrid composites – The larger particle size can produce strong composites but don’t polish as well.
- Microfill composites – The tiny particles are not as strong as hybrid composites, but a cosmetic dentist can polish them with a luster that looks like natural tooth enamel.
- Nanofill composites – Some dentists choose nanofills for a combination of high strength and high polish.
What to Expect with Dental Bonding Quality from a Family Dentist
Most family dentists stock dental bonding materials like a hybrid composite that is durable but lacks luster. In contrast, an expert cosmetic dentist stocks a variety of composites and selects them based on each patient’s case, including the condition and location of your teeth. A cosmetic dentist would choose high-luster composite on front teeth to make them look natural. Also, a cosmetic dentist layers shades and translucencies to make the composite look realistic.
Why Would Your Bonding Stain So Soon?
Dental bonding may stain prematurely if your dentist uses a composite that doesn’t polish well. Also, if your dentist doesn’t have the right polishing equipment, your bonding will lack shine.
We recommend asking your dentist to give your bonding more stain resistance with a high polish. If she cannot correct the bonding, look for an advanced, preferably accredited cosmetic dentist who can fix the work. The cosmetic dentist may recommend porcelain veneers if your bonding covers the entire surface of each tooth. You will get long-lasting, stain-resistant results that perfectly match your natural teeth.
Although Supersmile toothpaste prevents and removes stains, it is not as effective when a lack of polish causes stains on dental bonding. Schedule a consultation with an expert cosmetic dentist.
Beverly Hills accredited fellow of cosmetic dentistry Dr. Brian LeSage sponsors this post. Get more information in our post on why dental bonding may turn yellow.
Dental bonding before and after photos of Dr. LeSage’s patient. See his smile gallery for case details.