Dental Bonding vs. Contouring

Dental Bonding vs. Contouring from Grand Valley Dentistry in Allendale Charter Twp, MIThere 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 Allendale Charter Twp, MI.

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 Grand Valley Dentistry at 616-259-6046 for an appointment in our Allendale Charter Twp office.

Recent Posts

When Would A Dentist Recommend A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth?

A partial denture for one missing tooth may seem unnecessary to some, but it may be the right treatment option for certain people. It is not unusual for someone to lose a single tooth as a result of some type of injury or tooth decay. Even old age can cause a tooth to fall out…

Can A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth Improve My Speech?

Missing even a single tooth can have an impact on a person’s ability to pronounce many words. A partial denture for one missing tooth can help restore clear diction and relieve the embarrassment that can result when listeners have to ask you to repeat yourself. At first, speaking with a new denture can seem strange…

3 Myths About Getting A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth

A missing tooth due to an accident or gum disease can lead to embarrassment and oral health challenges. A partial denture for one missing tooth is an excellent option for anyone who wants a fast and affordable way to fill a gap between teeth. Unfortunately, misinformation about partial dentures can prevent dental patients from making…

Recent Posts

When Would A Dentist Recommend A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth?

When Would A Dentist Recommend A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth?

A partial denture for one missing tooth may seem unnecessary to some, but it may be the right treatment option for certain people. It is not unusual for someone to lose a single tooth as a result of some type of injury or tooth decay. Even old age can cause a tooth to fall out…

Can A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth Improve My Speech?

Can A Partial Denture For One Missing Tooth Improve My Speech?

Missing even a single tooth can have an impact on a person’s ability to pronounce many words. A partial denture for one missing tooth can help restore clear diction and relieve the embarrassment that can result when listeners have to ask you to repeat yourself. At first, speaking with a new denture can seem strange…