How Long Can Dental Bonding Last in Gaps Between Teeth?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure that can be used to close gaps between teeth, improve the appearance of your smile, and improve oral function. At Riley Dental in Haslet, TX, Dr. Luke Riley and his team offer dental bonding and contouring for a variety of cosmetic flaws, so you can have something to smile about.

Keep reading to learn more about dental bonding and contouring and how long it lasts when used to close gaps between teeth.

Do I need dental bonding to close a tooth gap?

Whether or not a gap between your teeth needs to be fixed is generally a matter of personal preference. It can also depend on factors, including the size of the gap, its impact on oral function, and your unique feelings about how it affects your appearance.

However, in some cases, gaps between teeth can indicate an underlying dental or orthodontic problem. These include misaligned teeth, missing teeth, or jaw irregularities, and treating the problem may be necessary to improve oral health.

How does dental bonding work for gaps between teeth?

If you decide to get dental bonding and contouring to fill a gap between your teeth, the procedure involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the surface of the teeth and sculpting it to fill in the gap. The resin is then cured with a special light that hardens the material and bonds it to the tooth.

At the end of the procedure, Dr. Riley and his team will contour the resin and your natural enamel, so you get a uniform result that isn't visible to others.

What are the benefits of getting dental bonding to close a tooth gap?

There are several reasons why someone might choose dental bonding to close gaps between their teeth, including:

• A desire for a particular aesthetic: In this case, dental bonding and contouring can create a more uniform and symmetrical appearance that you may prefer.
• Better tooth function: Gaps between teeth can trap food particles, making it hard to clean your teeth thoroughly and eventually causing tooth decay and gum disease (especially if the gap is toward the back of your mouth).
• Ease of procedure: Dental bonding is a minimally invasive procedure that can typically be completed in one appointment because there is no need to remove any part of the tooth (something that's required for those who choose an option like a porcelain veneer). Patients typically report little to no discomfort during the procedure.
• Durability: Dental bonding can last for several years with proper care, making it a durable option for closing gaps between the teeth.

How long does dental bonding last when used to fix a tooth gap?

Results are different for everyone and will depend partly on the size of the gap and how well you care for your teeth. However, patients can generally expect dental bonding to last 5 – 10 years.

In some cases, the material used for bonding may get discolored. Since the bond can't be whitened with general-use whitening products, some patients may opt to have teeth re-bonded every few years. The affordability and relative ease of the procedure usually make this a viable option for most patients. Of course, occasionally, a patient's dental bonding may last beyond a decade if they care for it well.

Get dental bonding in Haslet, TX

Dental bonding and contouring can also be used to treat other tooth imperfections, such as uneven or misshapen teeth. If you are considering dental bonding for a gap in your teeth or another cosmetic issue, discuss your options with Dr. Luke Riley and his team to determine if it's the right choice for you.

Schedule an appointment at Riley Dental in Haslet, TX to start your journey toward the smile you deserve.