When finished, the bonding blends right into the rest of your natural teeth, giving you a beautiful smile and no one will be able to tell anything was done. However, because of its composition, composite resin, dental bonding is susceptible to stains. Knowing how to remove them can help you to get the most out of your bonding and keep your smile bright and beautiful.
What Causes Stains?
Just as important as knowing how to remove stains is knowing what causes them in the first place. Knowing the culprits can help you to minimize discoloration. Some of the worst offenders are:
| • | Beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine and grape juice. |
| • | Foods like dark berries, tomatoes, and curry dishes. |
| • | Smoking. Cigarettes, and other tobacco products, contain multiple chemicals. Two of these chemicals, tar and nicotine are what causes stains. Tar is naturally dark, while nicotine turns yellow when mixed with oxygen. |
Getting Rid of Stains
There are a few different ways to get rid of stains. One of the best ways is to have your dentist polish the bonding, which will remove the discolored surface. However, if the stain cannot be removed, the bonding can be resurfaced with new bonding. As a last resort, you may need to have the bonding completely replaced.
Prevention is Key
Preventing stains in the first place will eliminate the need for removal in the first place. One of best ways to avoid stains is to avoid anything that causes them, which means staying away from coffee, tea, red wine and quitting smoking. If you cannot live without your morning cup of coffee, make sure to limit the amount you drink and always follow the coffee with a glass of water.
Drink beverages through a straw to limit contact with teeth. Finally, good oral hygiene is essential. Daily brushing and flossing at home are important, scrubbing surface stains away. And don't forget to visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and exams.
Taking care of your dental bonding can help to prevent stains. However, should your bonding become stained, there is no need to worry, as it can be easily fixed. Contact our office to learn more.
