Dental Bonding vs. Contouring

Dental Bonding vs. Contouring from Long Grove Dental in Long Grove, ILThere are some cases where a stained or chipped tooth can be fixed with dental bonding or contouring. While these issues can be more severe and so require a different solution, something like an uneven edge or unsightly spot can often be treated without more invasive procedures that can affect the entire mouth.

Dental bonding

This procedure enhances a tooth's appearance by adding a small amount of material to it.

Material used

Composite resin is typically the material used to fill in irregularities in a tooth. This is the same compound generally used to fill more visible cavities because it is similar in color to the natural enamel of the tooth. It can even be shaded to match the color of a tooth so the bonding is not noticeable. A treatment like this can last between five and 10 years depending on care.

Issues it can fix

More serious irregularities may not be able to be repaired by bonding. The following are some of the issues commonly fixed by this type of procedure:

  • Small gaps between teeth
  • Intense stains unable to be lifted with other whitening options
  • A tooth that appears short or uneven
  • Chipped teeth
  • As an alternative to a crown on a front tooth

This treatment can typically be completed in a single office visit and without the use of any numbing agents. It is important to keep the teeth as clean as possible after having this procedure, as the bonded area will not discolor along with the natural enamel. Regular brushing and oral hygiene is therefore important. In some cases, tooth whitening may be necessary to keep the surrounding teeth the same color as the bonding.

Dental contouring

Instead of adding material to a tooth, this procedure takes away a small amount of enamel.

Tools used

A sanding instrument is most often used to correct small imperfections on the enamel of a tooth. When the irregularity is on the side of a tooth, contouring can be accomplished using sandpaper-like strips. The issue needs to be on the surface of the tooth and not down too deep for this treatment to be a recommended option.

Smile problems it can solve

Contouring can only be performed on thick enamel. Attempting to contour thin enamel can cause chipping or cracking. A procedure like this can successfully deal with pits or rough patches, pointed or jagged edges, teeth that overlap or longer teeth that create an uneven smile.

While this treatment can be completed in a dental office, the strength of your enamel should be thoroughly checked by a dental professional before beginning the procedure. This can prevent thin enamel from being damaged unnecessarily.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bonding in Long Grove, IL.

Conclusion

Teeth with small surface imperfections may be able to be fixed with dental bonding and contouring. These relatively simple procedures involve adding material or shaving off small amounts of enamel. Many common tooth issues can be addressed quickly and easily with these treatments.

Request an appointment or call Long Grove Dental at 847-636-5020 for an appointment in our Long Grove office.

Recent Posts

Can Dental Bonding Fix My Smile?

Dental bonding is a way to improve your smile by closing gaps between teeth without orthodontic treatment, repairing chips and cracks and fixing other minor cosmetic imperfections. This review highlights what dental bonding is, what the benefits of treatment are and when to consider dental bonding treatment to improve your smile. No one should have to…

Dental Bonding Vs. Contouring

Wondering whether you should choose dental bonding services or dental contouring services to repair one or more issues with your teeth? These two popular cosmetic options both work to improve the way one looks when they smile. When it comes to which option someone should choose to improve their smile, read on for in-depth information.Thinking…

When Is Dental Bonding The Recommended Option?

Dental bonding is becoming more and more common as a restorative treatment thanks to its low cost and minimal time commitment. With so many options available to improve the smile's appearance, no one wants to walk around with chipped teeth or large gaps between their teeth. Direct resin bonding is one method for resolving these…

Recent Posts

Can I Play Sports With Dental Implants?

Can I Play Sports With Dental Implants?

Dentists generally recommend dental implants as a natural choice for replacing missing teeth. If you play sports regularly, especially contact sports, you may be worried about continued participation after having your lost teeth replaced. This article covers what you need to know about playing sports with dental implants.Every sport has required skills, levels of fitness…

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

A General Dentist Talks About Dental Phobia

Dental phobia is typically classified as a more severe form of dental anxiety. It leads many people to avoid visiting the dentist altogether, and those who do visit the dentist battle through fear and severe anxiety. The good news is that there are effective ways for a general dentist to help patients who struggle with…