Dental bonding for enamel erosion along the gumline of my upper teeth?

Question

I have developed some enamel erosion along the gumline of my upper teeth, likely due to aggressive brushing over the years. I have corrected this and otherwise my oral is health is good with regular check-ups and cleanings. I am pretty self conscious about it since it is visible. I was considering bonding to improve the look, but am concerned about what this does to the teeth long term since it has to be redone occasionally, and I don't want to harm the enamel unnecessarily.

Steven Davidowitz, DDS · Answer

It’s great that you’ve corrected your brushing habits and maintain good oral health. Both bonding and veneers are common options for addressing enamel erosion, but you’re right to consider the long-term impact. Here’s a quick breakdown of each:

1.	Bonding:
	•	Involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the affected areas.
	•	It’s minimally invasive compared to veneers, as it doesn’t require significant removal of enamel.
	•	Bonding usually lasts 3-10 years but might chip or stain over time, requiring touch-ups.
	•	It’s a good short- to medium-term option without substantial harm to the enamel.
	2.	Veneers:
	•	Thin, custom-made shells (typically porcelain) that cover the front surface of the teeth.
	•	Veneers require more enamel removal than bonding to accommodate the shells. This process is irreversible.
	•	They are more durable, lasting 10-20 years, but once you get veneers, you’ll always need them (and they’ll need to be replaced periodically).
	•	While they offer superior aesthetics and longevity, the enamel sacrifice is a concern.

Since enamel doesn’t regenerate, many people prefer starting with bonding since it’s more conservative and can always be upgraded to veneers later if necessary. However, bonding is typically transitional and leads to veneers in the fiture.  For either treatment, a skilled cosmetic dentist can give you a personalized recommendation based on the extent of erosion. You might also consider discussing desensitizing treatments or fluoride applications if sensitivity is an issue.

Miller Vieira Paula, DDS · Answer

Dental bonding can be an effective solution for addressing enamel erosion along the gumline, especially if you're self-conscious about its appearance. Here's some information to help ease your concerns:
What Dental Bonding Does:Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin material to the affected area. It is sculpted and polished to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, improving both the appearance and protection of the eroded area.
Benefits of Bonding:• Minimally Invasive: The bonding process requires little to no removal of natural enamel, so it’s a conservative option for treatment.• Aesthetic Improvement: It can cover up the eroded areas, restoring your teeth’s appearance and reducing sensitivity.•Protection: Bonding adds an extra layer of protection to prevent further erosion in the treated areas.
Longevity and Maintenance:• Bonding is not permanent, and it typically lasts 3-10 years, depending on factors like your oral habits and care routine.• It may need touch-ups or replacements over time, but with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, it can be a durable option.• While it does need to be redone occasionally, it is still a low-risk, non-invasive treatment that won’t significantly harm your enamel.
Alternatives to Consider:• Fluoride Treatments: Can help strengthen enamel in areas where erosion is mild.• Gingival Grafts: If the erosion is due to gum recession, soft tissue grafts can protect the roots and improve aesthetics.• Veneers: Porcelain or composite veneers may be a longer-lasting option if you're concerned about repeat treatments, though they are more invasive and costlier.
Final Consideration:Dental bonding is a great option to restore both function and appearance without harming your teeth. Since your oral health is otherwise good, this could be a straightforward, minimally invasive way to address the problem. Discuss your concerns with your dentist to confirm bonding is the best fit for your situation!

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Dental bonding for enamel erosion along the gumline of my upper teeth?

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.