Can bonded teeth be whitened the same way natural teeth are whitened? The short answer is no. The teeth whitening procedure is a quick and effective procedure to make natural teeth appear brighter. Unfortunately, this treatment doesn’t affect the bonding material. In this article, we’ll discuss cosmetic dental bonding and alternative methods of teeth whitening for bonded teeth.
What Are Bonded Teeth and How Are They Made?
Dental bonding is a procedure that involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the surface of natural teeth. It can fix several cosmetic issues like:
- Cracks
- Discoloration
- Slight misalignment
- Gaps
- Uneven shape
During the process, the resin is shaped, polished, and hardened using a curing light. This makes the material blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Why Is Teeth Whitening Different for Bonded Teeth?
White there are various benefits of dental bonding, teeth whitening for bonded teeth needs alternative approaches. Although the composite resin used for dental bonding looks like a real tooth in terms of color and shape, it doesn’t have the same porous structure. This is why the whitening material doesn’t have the same effect on it.
Challenges in Whitening Composite Bonding
If bonding materials stain or discolor, you need alternative methods for whitening. Traditional bleaching agents penetrate enamel to remove the stains. Composite resin, however, resists this process. Trying to whiten bonded teeth by traditional teeth whitening methods can even damage them.
Can You Whiten Bonded Teeth?
You can, but with different methods. Bonded material doesn’t respond to standard whitening treatments. Therefore, we should use alternative techniques that can result in our desired outcome without damaging the bonded tooth.
Why Traditional Whitening May Not Work
If you have some bonded teeth and you try to whiten your smile with traditional teeth whitening, you’ll notice that in the end, your natural teeth look whiter than the bonded ones! This is because the bleaching agents have penetrated enamel and broken down stains, but they haven’t been successful in doing so with bonded teeth. This creates a color mismatch, which we’re not looking for.
In addition, stains on bonded teeth can be deeper than surface stains, so if you try to remove them, it’s possible that you damage the material. This can weaken the composite over time.
Looking to Whiten Bonded Teeth? Get Help from Us!
Our experienced cosmetic dentists at Pearl Dental Group are here for you! With effective and safe teeth whitening methods, we are experts at transforming your small from dull to dazzling.
Best Teeth Whitening Methods for Bonded Teeth
We discussed how the traditional whitening method is not an option when it comes to cosmetic dental bonding. But this doesn’t mean we have to give up! There are several alternative methods that can help brighten bonded teeth.
Professional Cleaning and Polishing
Professional cleaning and polishing can be a safe initial step. This treatment removes surface stains on both natural and bonded teeth. Cosmetic dentists use specialized tools and pastes to polish the bonded material. This allows them to make it appear brighter without compromising its structure.
Replacement of Bonded Material
If your bonded teeth are significantly discolored or stained, replacing the bonding can be the most effective solution. The old composite is removed and new material is applied to your tooth. This new material matches the color of your natural teeth or desired shade. This is a more intensive option, but it ensures a uniform, whiter appearance.
Dental Veneers for a Whiter Smile
If you’re looking to upgrade your smile, dental veneers can be a more permanent solution for you. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that cover the front of the teeth, creating a bright and uniform smile. This option can be especially beneficial if you have multiple bonded teeth that have discolored over time.
How to Choose a Teeth Whitening Solution in Toronto
There are plenty of effective cosmetic dentistry options regarding teeth whitening for bonded teeth. To decide the best approach for your smile, you should consider your cosmetic goals and preferences.
Consult a Cosmetic Dentist
A cosmetic dentist can guide you to make an informed decision. They will assess whether your bonding needs minor polishing, replacement, or alternative treatments. Through a consultation with a cosmetic dentist, you can find out what’s achievable based on things you have in mind and ensure you invest in a solution that will give you lasting results.
In-Office Whitening Solutions
In-office whitening solutions combine professional cleaning with targeted polishing for bonded teeth. These treatments don’t bleach bonded material, but they can help lift surface stains and make your smile appear brighter.
At-Home Whitening Kits
At-home kits are widely available, but they’re not ideal when it comes to teeth whitening for bonded teeth. Some contain bleaching agents that may cause uneven whitening and leave your bonded teeth looking darker. However, there are at-home products designed to polish and clean bonded teeth without bleach. This can make your smile look brighter.
Maintaining the Brightness of Bonded Teeth
It’s always better to prevent stains and damage as much as you can. Fortunately, you can use the following tips to keep bonded teeth as bright as possible and prevent bonding discoloration.
Avoid Stain-causing Foods and Drinks
Avoiding stain-causing foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can go a long way in preserving the brightness of bonded teeth.
- Use a straw when drinking staining beverages
- Rinse your mouth with water afterward
- Avoid smoking
These can help reduce discoloration both in your natural and bonded teeth.
Stick to Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping bonded teeth looking their best.
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush,
- Consider a non-abrasive toothpaste that’s safe for bonding material.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings
These help you prevent stains from building up over time.
Wrapping Up
It’s true that teeth whitening for bonded teeth can be challenging. But there are alternative treatments that can help you achieve your desired outcome. Consulting a cosmetic dentist in Toronto is an excellent first step toward determining the best whitening solution for your smile. By receiving professional help and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of a whiter smile even with bonded teeth.
At Pearl Dental Group, we offer various teeth whitening treatments, that are effective for your bonded teeth. We also provide premium cosmetic dentistry solutions including zoom teeth whitening that can boost your smile and confidence. Don’t take the chance of having a winning smile away from yourself! Contact us today for your consultation.
FAQs
- How often should I replace my bonding if it stains?
Typically, dental bonding lasts about 5-10 years. Stained bonding, however, may need earlier replacement. Regular professional cleanings can help prolong its brightness. If discoloration persists, replacement is the best choice.
- Can bonded teeth be whitened with regular teeth whitening products?
No, regular whitening products don’t work on bonded teeth. Bleaching agents target tooth enamel, not composite resin. Using traditional whitening can lead to uneven color between your natural teeth and bonded areas.
- What are my options if my bonded teeth no longer match the rest of my teeth?
If your bonded teeth no longer match, options include professional polishing, replacing the bonding material, or applying veneers.
