Does Composite Bonding Stain?

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Composite bonding is prone to staining as the resin used in this treatment is porous. This means that all the pigments found in the food and drinks you consume daily are soaked up like a sponge. If you smoke, the tar and nicotine found in cigarettes are also absorbed into these microscopic pores, leading to discolouration.

How quickly does composite bonding stain?

Stains typically appear from about three years onwards. However, your lifestyle habits and how you care for your bonding will influence how long your smile can last before beginning to discolour.

In other cases, stains may appear within the first 24 – 48 hours if you do not follow the specific instructions set out by your dentist. During the first two days post-procedure your bonding is still setting, and is therefore more susceptible to staining.

What should you eat with composite bonding?

To keep your teeth bonding looking as vibrant and bright for as long as possible, you should try to limit your intake of certain foods. You don’t have to cut them out entirely – just consider how much you’re consuming!

These foods fall into three categories:

• Pigmented: Seeps into the tiny pores of the resin over time, leading to discolouration.
• Acidic: Wears away the dental bonding, allowing pigmented foods to penetrate the resin and become stuck.
• Sugary: Similar to acidic compositions, sugary foods erode the surface of the resin. The resin then absorbs these pigments.

We have given some examples of food and drinks that are suitable for bonded teeth, as well as foods to avoid after composite bonding in order to minimise the chance of staining below.

Please remember that you know your body best. If you are unsure of which foods you can and can’t avoid, for example as a result of a medical condition, contact your doctor or dietician for advice.

How to fix composite bonding stains

Can you whiten composite bonding yourself? No. Teeth whitening toothpastes, mouthwashes or any other similar products are ineffective on the resin material, meaning that only dental professionals are able to fix stains.

To keep on top of stains, we recommend visiting a hygienist every six months for a quick polish. Alternatively, if your bonding has become very dull and discoloured, you may also have your bonding removed and replaced.

Composite bonding aftercare advice

There are a number of steps you can take to enjoy the full lifespan of your bonding. As mentioned earlier, the first 48 hours following the procedure is particularly vital, because the resin is still setting. During this period you should:

• Stick to soft foods, avoiding anything hard or pigmented
• Rinse with water after meals
• Do not smoke or vape
• Drink staining liquids through a straw
• Brush gently
• Contact your dentist if the bonding feels uneven or sharp

There are also a number of things to consider while caring for your bonding long term:

• Make slight modifications to your diet (if able)
• Do not use your teeth as tools, for example, to remove clothing tags
• Maintain a great oral hygiene routine
• Attend regular check-ups with your dentist and hygienist
• Do not smoke or vape
• Wear a mouthguard if you grind teeth or play contact sports

Conclusion:

If your composite bonding stains or starts to dull, don’t panic. A quick appointment with your hygienist can remove these stains and get your smile looking radiant once more. Book a consultation with Yorkshire Dental Suite to freshen up your bonding or kickstart your teeth transformation.