Five Ways Dental Bonding Can Bring Appeal to Your Smile
Cosmetic dentistry may be synonymous with porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, or even dental implants. But for men and women who have stained, discolored, worn, chipped, or misshapen teeth, cosmetic dentistry offers various techniques that can quickly and dramatically improve their smile. Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that is relatively straightforward and can be an excellent solution for some of the most common dental flaws.
Dr. Spiker Davis and Dr. Matt Guerre of Cosmetic Dental Associates in Houston, TX, work one-on-one with patients to determine the best cosmetic dentistry procedures to fulfill their desired aesthetic goals.
What is dental bonding?
Dental bonding is a noninvasive, painless cosmetic dental technique that employs a durable, tooth-colored resin material. This material is applied and hardened using a special light that bonds it to the tooth. At Cosmetic Dental Associates in Houston, TX, this procedure begins with etching the surface of the tooth, followed by the application of a conditioning gel that works to ensure a strong bond. The color of the resin will be carefully selected to match the existing teeth. Once applied, the resin will be expertly shaped so that the tooth appears similar to those around it. After the hardening light performs its job, the newly bonded tooth will be polished to further enhance its shape and appearance.
Dental contouring
Frequently paired with dental bonding, contouring is one of the most practical approaches for correcting poorly aligned, uneven, or chipped teeth. This noninvasive procedure consists of gently buffing and smoothing worn edges of teeth as well as chips, pits, and other small cosmetic issues. When teeth slightly overlap, the health of the teeth can benefit from a contouring procedure. It is typical for damaging plaque and tartar to build up in areas where teeth overlap, so by smoothing the surface of the teeth and eliminating the overlap, patients can reduce their risk of experiencing decay and gum disease. For many Houston-area patients, the front teeth are often best-suited to receive a contouring treatment.
The first step is to take x-rays of the teeth so that the exact location and amount of pulp in the tooth can be located. After this, Dr. Davis or Dr. Guerre may proceed with removing a small amount of enamel from the teeth using a dental laser or drill. Teeth that are poorly shaped or excessively long may be altered to address bite and alignment issues. They are then smoothed and polished for an attractive new look.
Five ways dental bonding can beautify your smile
Dental bonding and contouring can address several aesthetic concerns. Read below to learn about five ways dental bonding can bring cosmetic appeal to your smile by fixing minor dental imperfections.
1. Improve the appearance of discolored teeth
Teeth that are discolored due to coffee, tea, or red wine consumption, as well as those that have been yellowed by smoking, can be made whiter and brighter through the use of dental bonding.
2. Close spaces between the teeth
If you have a small, undesirable gap between your teeth, dental bonding is a fantastic tool to "close the gap." Additionally, cosmetic bonding can alter the shape of teeth so that they appear more even and symmetrical as part of a truly stunning smile.
3. Repair chipped or cracked teeth
Pits and small fractures that form in the teeth also can be improved with this procedure, which typically is most useful for making minor aesthetic improvements.
4. Enhance the shape of pointy teeth
While dental bonding works to reshape uneven teeth, contouring can be particularly transformative for excessively pointy teeth, as is commonly experienced with canine teeth. The tip of the tooth is rounded with the help of an instrument that features a burr. The skilled dentists at Cosmetic Dental Associates in Houston, TX, glide the tool over the tooth's surface to create smoother results.
5. Even out a slightly crooked smile
A crooked smile can make the mouth appear unhealthy. Dental bonding and contouring can make the smiles of men and women look more streamlined. Unusually long teeth may also be reduced with contouring to help craft a more harmonious-looking smile. In some cases, removing just a few millimeters of enamel in precisely the right areas can vastly improve the appearance of the teeth.
What results can I expect?
For most patients, an improved aesthetic appearance following a dental bonding and contouring procedure is long-lasting. However, the resin used in cosmetic bonding procedures is not immune to chipping and staining. It is essential to stay away from consuming dark-colored foods and beverages as well as smoking. Patients are also advised to refrain from biting into hard objects and avoid using their teeth to open packages, as this could pose a threat to your beautifully bonded teeth. Proper oral hygiene habits, including daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups, can extend your excellent results.
As one of the quickest and simplest ways to restore the appearance of your teeth, dental bonding and contouring treatments can address a host of cosmetic issues. Chips and cracks can be concealed, and worn-down or uneven teeth can be made to look smoother. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Spiker Davis or Dr. Matt Guerre at Cosmetic Dental Associates in Houston, TX, and get the spectacular smile you've always dreamed of having.