Categories: Dental Bonding

Dental Bonding vs. Contouring

There 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 Scottsdale, AZ.

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 Sonoran Desert Dentistry at 480-439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.

Recent Posts

Can Dental Bonding Fix A Chipped Tooth?

If you accidentally chip a tooth, dental bonding is one possible treatment option. Tooth enamel is a very hard substance, but it is still vulnerable to sudden force. You may chip a tooth if you trip and fall forward, hitting your mouth on the ground or another object. It can happen if you bite or…

4 Tips To Prolong The Longevity Of Dental Bonding

One of the options to fix teeth imperfections such as chips, cracks, discolorations, and slim gaps is dental bonding. This procedure typically only takes 30 to 60 minutes, and it can greatly improve one's smile. However, teeth bonding does not last forever. It typically needs to be replaced every 10 years or so, although replacement…

Most Common Types Of Dental Bonding Treatments

Dental bonding is one of the most versatile and affordable treatments used in dentistry. It can be used to fix a wide range of issues like damaged, cracked, chipped, or decayed teeth. The procedure involves using composite resin to rebuild and restore damaged teeth. These restorations typically last up to eight years depending on your…

Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Share
Published by
Dr. Haleh Bazargan

Recent Posts

Invisalign for Teens: FAQs About the Procedure

Invisalign® has been around for a little more than two decades and, in that time,…

3 hours ago

Invisalign Can Correct Your Teen’s Improper Bite

The teenage years can be awkward, especially for those who have to deal with crooked…

3 days ago

Invisalign for Teens: Am I a Good Candidate?

There are various options for straightening teeth. Invisalign® for teens is a popular option for…

1 week ago

4 Tips to Improve a Teen’s Invisalign Experience

Invisalign® clear aligner trays are not just for adults; teenagers and some children can also…

2 weeks ago

Pros and Cons of Teeth Whitening

Whitening patients' teeth involves a simple procedure that a dentist can perform in one visit…

2 weeks ago

Can Invisalign for Teens Affect Speech?

A significant advantage of Invisalign® for teens is that it makes the treatment more discreet…

2 weeks ago