Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic procedure used to improve the appearance of worn teeth. But, while dental bonding can effectively restore the shape of your smile, can it also be whitened? Read on to learn more about how teeth whitening treatments interact with dental bonding.
How Does Dental Bonding Work?
Before exploring whether teeth that have been bonded can be whitened, it’s important to understand how dental bonding works. Your dentist first applies resin to a tooth’s surface before shaping and curing it to achieve the desired look.
Dental bonding is an excellent option for correcting minor cosmetic imperfections and improving the overall aesthetics of your smile.
Why Whitening Treatments Don’t Work on Bonded Teeth
Teeth whitening treatments typically rely on chemical agents to remove surface stains and lighten the natural enamel’s shade. Whitening agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide penetrate the porous enamel and lift away stains.
However, these chemicals may not effectively penetrate the composite resin material used in dental bonding. As a result, trying to whiten bonded teeth with traditional teeth whitening methods may yield inconsistent or disappointing results.
How You Can Brighten Bonded Teeth
Don’t worry, there’s still hope for a brighter smile! While traditional teeth whitening methods may not work well for bonded teeth, you have options:
- Professional Polishing: Your dentist can perform a professional polishing procedure to remove surface stains and restore the natural luster of your bonded teeth.
- Replacement or Repair: If you want to achieve a uniform look after whitening your teeth, you may consider removing and replacing your bonding. This will ensure that your bonded teeth match much more closely.
- Cosmetic Enhancements: In some cases, your dentist may recommend other cosmetic treatments, such as porcelain veneers to upgrade bonded teeth. This treatment covers the whole tooth with a stain-resistant shell, keeping your smile bright and natural-looking.
If you’re considering teeth whitening for bonded teeth, consult with your dentist first to discuss your options. They can assess the condition of your dental bonding and discuss options for whitening. Together, you can decide the best course of action to achieve a brighter and more confident smile.
About the Author
Dr. Eric L. Tolliver is on a mission to give all his patients the smile they desire. He’s a talented and passionate dentist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Missouri—Kansas City. Since completing his studies, Dr. Tolliver has been on a path of lifelong learning, joining several professional organizations for educational opportunities. Call (417) 887-5757 to schedule a professional whitening treatment at Galleria Dental of Springfield or visit the website to browse other services.