Learn Why You Need to Wear a Mouthguard During Physical Activity

June 18, 2025

3D image of a happy cartoon tooth

Dental bonding is a quick and effective way to enhance your smile by repairing chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration. After investing in your smile with dental bonding, it’s natural to want to keep your results looking great for as long as possible. Fortunately, with a few simple habits, you can extend the life of your bonding while maintaining your confident, beautiful smile.

Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is essential for protecting your dental bonding and your overall oral health. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles around your bonded teeth. This helps prevent staining and keeps your gums and surrounding teeth healthy, supporting the longevity of your bonding.

Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks

Dental bonding can stain over time, especially when exposed frequently to dark-colored foods and drinks. To keep your bonding bright:

  • Limit your intake of coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas.
  • Rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or drinks.
  • Avoid tobacco use, as it can discolor your bonding and natural teeth.

Being mindful of these habits can help your bonding maintain its color and blend naturally with your smile.

Be Gentle with Your Teeth

Bonding is strong, but it’s not indestructible. To prevent chips or damage:

Avoid biting on hard foods like ice, hard candies, and nuts.

Do not use your teeth as tools to open packages or bite your nails.

Wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night or play sports.

Protecting your teeth from unnecessary stress will help your bonding last longer and reduce the risk of damage to your natural teeth.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine dental checkups are essential for maintaining your bonded teeth. Your dentist will monitor the condition of your bonding, polish it to maintain its appearance, and check for any signs of wear or damage. If your bonding becomes chipped or discolored, your dentist can repair or refresh it to restore your smile’s appearance.

Regular cleanings will also help prevent staining while allowing your dentist to remove any plaque buildup that could affect your bonding and overall oral health.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your beautifully bonded smile for many years to come.

About the Practice

At Family Dental Associates of Spring Hill, Dr. Allen and Dr Jewell are dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Whether you’re considering dental bonding or need tips to protect your cosmetic treatment, our team offers advanced dental care tailored to your needs in a warm, welcoming environment in Spring Hill, TN.

Call us at (913) 548-4888 or request an appointment online.