If you have had one or more teeth bonded in the past, you know this procedure is a great solution for chipped or otherwise imperfect pearly whites. After some time passes, though, you may find yourself dreaming about teeth whitening due to the fact that the bonding material absorbs the colors of what you eat and drink over time. The good news is that it is possible to whiten bonded teeth, but the process is not as easy as brightening your natural teeth. Keep reading to learn how it works – and how you can reverse the clock on those cups of coffee or red wine.
How to whiten teeth after dental bonding
Whitening your natural teeth is a simple process that involves applying a high powered whitening gel directly to the tooth enamel. When discussing whitening bonded teeth, however, the method is a little bit different. Dental bonding is made of a material that does not respond in the same way as natural tooth enamel does.
If you are interested in brightening your smile and one or more of your teeth have been bonded, your dentist will likely recommend one of two options.
- Whiten the surrounding teeth, then replace the old bonding material with new bonding to match the new, brighter shade.
- Cover up the bonded tooth with a porcelain veneer that matches the shade of the surrounding teeth. It will make sense to whiten your natural teeth as well for the most dazzling results.
Of course, patients who are looking to get their teeth bonded for the first time should consider having their teeth whitened before the bonding material is applied. The dental bonding can then be adjusted to match the new (whiter) shade to last you for years of dazzling smiles.
Is teeth whitening a good option for you?
In most instances, dental bonding can be replaced successfully. This means it is completely possible to whiten your teeth even if they have been bonded. Many people are also excellent candidates for porcelain veneers as well, if you are interested in completely remaking the appearance of your smile.
Having a smile that you feel confident flashing is worth so much – which means it is a wise investment to check into having dental bonding whitened if it becomes dingy or stained.
About the Practice
Baldwin Family Dental offers comprehensive dental care, including top-notch restorative and cosmetic dentistry services. With decades of combined experience, Dr. Waheed and Dr. Panousis serve up beautiful, healthy smiles for Panama City neighbors of all ages. Learn more about teeth whitening online or contact the office directly to ask a question at 435-752-8000.