Categories: Dental Bonding

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.

About general dentistry

Thinking dental bonding and/or contouring is the right cosmetic choice? Many people are now looking into their cosmetic options to repair any minor tooth flaws they have and are especially excited about the fact that many of today’s options are minimally invasive. In fact, some cosmetic services do not even require patients to undergo any type of anesthetic. Many people are also asking their general dentist if they can perform these cosmetic treatments, as some general dentists have undergone additional training to provide additional dental services.

What is dental bonding?

According to WebMD, dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material (a durable plastic material) is applied and hardened with a special light, which ultimately "bonds" the material to the tooth to restore or improve a person's smile. This cosmetic procedure requires a dental professional to first prepare the tooth by making it rough so that the bonding material will properly adhere to the tooth. Once the bonding has adhered, a special light is used to harden the material. The last step is making any alterations to ensure it is shaped correctly and then polishing the tooth.

Common reasons for choosing bonding to repair minor tooth issues are to repair decayed teeth, chipped teeth, cracked teeth, to improve the appearance of discolored teeth, to close spaces between teeth, to make teeth look longer, to change the shape of teeth, for dental fillings and to protect the root of a tooth that happens to be exposed due to gum recession. Dental bonding tends to take between 30 and 60 minutes per tooth.

What is dental contouring?

According to WebMD, contouring or reshaping the teeth (also called odontoplasty, enameloplasty, stripping or slenderizing) is a procedure in which small amounts of tooth enamel are removed to change a tooth's length, shape or surface. In order for someone to be approved to undergo a contouring procedure, they must first be examined by a dental professional, as this cosmetic option is one that can only treat teeth that have plenty of enamel or if the pulp is not too close to the tooth’s surface.

Common reasons for choosing contouring to repair minor tooth issues are fixing small tooth chips, smoothing out bulges or pits in the enamel, adjusting minor irregular tooth shapes that happen to be caused by too many teeth or uneven teeth and adjusting the length of the canine teeth. Dental contouring tends to take between 40 and 50 minutes per tooth.

Making a choice

Now that the difference between dental bonding and dental contouring is understood, those who are in need of cosmetic services to repair their minor tooth problems are able to determine which option is right for them. Keep in mind that some people will benefit from choosing both cosmetic options, as everyone will have their own personalized treatment plan made during a consultation appointment.

Are you considering dental bonding in the Placentia area? Get more information at https://www.pacifichorizondentalarts.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Bonding in Placentia, CA.

Recent Posts

Cosmetic Dental Reasons To Get Dental Bonding

Getting dental bonding can be a good way to improve your smile. It can be hard to know the right time to get it, however. The right way to determine if you are a candidate for it is to have an appointment with your dentist. Keep reading to find out more about a few cosmetic…

How Dental Bonding Is Used To Fix Damaged Teeth

Dental bonding is one of the most highly recommended methods of repairing damaged teeth. It is a low cost and minimally invasive procedure and can restore the appearance of your smile. Learning about the benefits and process of dental bonding can help you decide if treatment is right for you.This review details what dental bonding…

Is Dental Bonding As Strong As Natural Teeth?

A common question that general dentists receive is whether or not dental bonding is as strong as natural teeth. Dental bonding is often recommended for restoring a damaged tooth or a tooth that has minor cosmetic imperfections, such as tooth stains, gaps between teeth, etc. It is a long-lasting option that can last for years. Dental…

3 Signs Dental Bonding Would Benefit You

Dental bonding is a common cosmetic dentistry procedure for repairing the teeth and restoring their appearance. The process involves the use of composite resin to repair or reshape the tooth. Composite resin is used because it bonds quickly with the tooth enamel. It is highly malleable, allowing the dentist to adjust it as necessary before…

Dr. Garcia

Share
Published by
Dr. Garcia

Recent Posts

Emergency Dentist: When To Seek Immediate Dental Care

Pain is often the first indicator that you may require a visit to the emergency…

3 days ago

TMJ Treatment Options From Your Dentist

If you experience soreness or pain in the jaw, you may want to talk with…

4 weeks ago

Eating After a Tooth Extraction

The reason that dentists tell patients to avoid hard foods after a tooth extraction is…

2 months ago

When a General Dentist May Recommend Root Canal Therapy

Teeth that are causing crippling pain may be needing root canal therapy.

3 months ago

Tips for Partial Denture Care

Those that wear partial dentures can expect an easier eating experience, better speaking and an…

4 months ago

5 Dental Restoration Options Other Than a Filling

Most problems, from damaged teeth to a misaligned bite, can be resolved with dental restoration…

5 months ago