The Drawbacks of Teeth Bonding: What You Need to Know

The Drawbacks of Teeth Bonding: What You Need to Know

Teeth bonding is one of the cheapest ways to fix teeth.

That much is clear, but you also get what you pay for in the end.

If you’re looking into getting tooth bonding it’s important to be aware of the bigger picture.

So, let’s dig right in and we’ll show you the flaws in this oft-touted method of tooth repair.

What is Tooth Bonding?

Tooth bonding involves the application of composite material to the tooth with a strong cement.

It’s used for a wide variety of purposes but most often it’s used as a cheaper option to deal with chipped or discolored teeth. The process can also be used to fix gaps, be placed over eroded enamel, or slight problems in alignment.

It’s a favored process because it’s cheaper, quicker, and often easier to sit through than processes like veneers.

Done properly it’s not a bad option.

The problem for many is that it has some strong disadvantages when compared to the other options available in modern dentistry.

Teeth Bonding Isn’t Permanent

The tooth bonding process uses a tough, plastic material bonded to the tooth. For cosmetic purposes it’s great but there are some issues with durability.

Tooth enamel is the toughest substance in the human body. It’s made for wear and tear, and there’s a reason we can use metal cutlery without any issues most of the time.

The problem is that the hardness of tooth enamel is to compensate for the powerful muscles in our jaws.

Even porcelain is only adequate for these purposes.

Plastics really don’t stand a chance in the long run and the tooth bonding process isn’t a permanent one.

Sooner or later the composite which has been placed in your mouth is going to wear down or chip, which means you’ll have to find another solution at some point.

As a general rule bonded teeth will last around a decade as long as you’re taking care of them. It’s not a “short term” procedure but they’re not a lifelong option for repair either.

Tooth Bonding Requires More Care

While porcelain veneers can pretty much be treated as real teeth… bonded teeth require care when you’re eating to avoid damage.

As we noted above: even the toughest composite material is no match for our jaws and hard foods.

While it’s not going to induce a change in your dental hygiene routine you’ll need to be aware of which teeth are bonded when you eat tougher foods like hard candy.

Biting down wrong can cause early damage to your expensive bonded teeth.

Lack of Stain Resistance

The plastic used in tooth bonding isn’t quite as stain-resistant as natural teeth or porcelain.

Basically, if you don’t take care of your bonded teeth then you’re going to look at stains sooner or later.

This also makes them a really poor option for those who drink a lot of coffee and red wine. They’re also a poor option for smokers for the same reason.

If you’re going to opt for tooth bonding then you may need to change your dietary habits to maintain their new white look.

They’re a Recurring Cost

Bonded teeth are a recurring cost if you’re not going to switch to another way of doing things. Expect to spend the money again every 3-5 years or so.

While this may not seem to be a big concern the truth is that no dental process is cheap and the price will add up to more than other options over the course of a normal lifespan.

Consider carefully whether or not you want to reinvest in the future before you commit to tooth bonding as a fix for your dental issues.

Is Tooth Bonding Right for Me?

Tooth bonding can be a great way to fix minor cosmetic issues as long as you’re aware of the disadvantages inherent to the process.

In many cases, it’s the cheapest option available. That alone makes it attractive, especially since it can be done in a single visit and doesn’t require the same level of commitment as most dental procedures.

Those with bad habits like smoking, chewing on nails, or drinking lots of heavily colored drinks may want to look for something else. They can stain and chip more easily than real teeth after all.

What Alternatives Are Available?

The above disadvantages are just facts of the process that you need to keep in mind when you’re trying to find a solution.Tooth bonding isn’t a terrible option. It it just not, the most advised solution since there is better and longer-lasting advancement in bonding called Bioclear. Just like the land-line telephone at home still works but the modern cell phone is a better option for nearly everyone. Bioclear is the better option for nearly everyone over bonding.

There are plenty of alternatives that lack the disadvantages you’ll find with the tooth bonding process.

The most minimally invasive, aesthetic, long- lasting and cost-efficient alternative to bonding is Bioclear. The technique requires no tooth structure removal, yet yields beautiful and long-lasting results. More information about Bioclear can be found at our website or YouTube channel from Dr. David Eshom, an expert in the Bioclear technique.

Porcelain veneers are a permanent solution that many people have found to lack the disadvantages of tooth bonding. They’re more expensive and they do take away natural tooth structure, but they’re an “gold standard” for cosmetic issues.

Crowns are also an option in many cases and form a permanent solution to a large array of dental problems. The procedure is more expensive and requires even more tooth structure destroyed, however, may be the only option for severely damaged or decayed teeth.

Ready for a Consultation?

If you were looking into the teeth bonding process  and you now are interested in the better option, Bioclear, then you’re going to need to consult with a dentist. A dental professional such as Dr. Eshom (a Bioclear/Uveneer expert) can help make sure that you’re on the right track to a lasting solution for a better smile.

Are you ready to find the right option for your needs? Contact us to set up a free consultation today!