Direct bonding is a cosmetic dental procedure where a tooth-colored composite resin material is applied and bonded to the surface of the teeth. It is used to repair chipped, cracked, or discolored teeth, close gaps between teeth, and improve the overall appearance of the smile. If you’ve had direct bonding for your damaged teeth and desire a whiter and brighter smile, you may wonder if teeth whitening is still possible. Read on to discover how teeth whitening and direct bonding interact and whether brightening your pearly whites this way is suitable for your needs.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Various methods are available for whitening teeth, including cheaper store-bought products with mixed and poor reviews, and professional whitening offered by dentists either in-office or through take-home kits. Both methods are effective and proven to whiten natural teeth safely.
Can You Whiten Bonded Teeth?
After dental bonding, at least one of your teeth is no longer entirely composed of natural material as composite resin has been bonded to it. Because this resin is nonporous, unlike enamel, traditional whitening agents cannot penetrate and whiten it. Therefore, if you want to whiten your smile after dental bonding, you’ll need to explore alternative whitening methods.
How Else Can I Brighten My Smile?
Ideally, the best time to brighten your smile is before getting cosmetic dental bonding; however, that may not always be feasible. If your teeth have become noticeably stained after receiving dental bonding, there are two excellent options to whiten them:
- Porcelain veneers – Your dentist can enhance the appearance and whiten your smile by bonding ultra-thin sheets of dental porcelain to the outer surfaces of your teeth. These porcelain veneers can be applied to teeth that have already received dental bonding, providing a beautiful and improved smile.
- New bonding material – In certain situations, your dentist can replace the old resin with new resin that matches the color of your teeth. This option is particularly ideal for older bonds or cases where the bond has deteriorated.
While dental bonding is an excellent solution, it can’t prevent teeth from becoming stained. However, maintaining diligent oral hygiene can help. If you want to whiten your discolored smile, teeth whitening is still a viable option. Simply discuss your concerns with your dentist to find a suitable and specific solution.
About the Practice
For compassionate and attentive dental care, trust Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, led by Dr. Kristopher R. Harth and Dr. Eric L. Townsend. Their team is dedicated to educating patients in Ponte Vedra Beach about maintaining optimal oral health, and they offer cosmetic dental treatments to enhance their smiles, including dental bonding and teeth whitening for perfect pearly whites. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about their cosmetic services, visit their website or call them at (904) 285-7711.