Our smile imperfections can be a source of embarrassment. Instead of hiding your smile from the world, why not seek cosmetic treatment from your Gary, IN, dentist? With bonding and contouring, we can often correct imperfections in as little as one visit. What do these procedures involve, and what esthetic issues will they correct?

What Will These Procedures Correct?

With dental bonding, we repair minor chips and cracks in the tooth, preventing tooth decay and infection. We may also close exposed gaps between the teeth and mask permanent teeth stains, which are forms of discoloration that may not respond to traditional teeth whitening. We also reshape malformed teeth as well. With dental contouring, we correct overly pointed teeth and remove any pits or grooves in the tooth’s surface. We also address minor damage or repair misshapen teeth. Each procedure can be completed in a single visit, and we may actually perform both in the same sitting for some patients.

Dental Bonding

We begin by cleaning the tooth and if necessary, removing decay. We then gently etch the tooth, which helps the material we apply stay in place as it cures. We prepare the composite resin material, which we also use in tooth-colored dental fillings. We shade the material to better match surrounding tooth structure, ensuring your repairs blend with the smile. We apply the material in several layers, which also helps match the translucent appearance of tooth enamel. The dentist then sculpts the tooth as the material cures under a light. The last step involves polishing the tooth, a step that helps ensure an attractive appearance.

Dental Contouring

Contouring takes an opposite approach. We don’t add material to the tooth. Instead, we actually remove a small layer of outer tooth structure by buffing the tooth. We then polish the tooth afterward. The procedure enables our team to address an array of cosmetic and restorative concerns, all in one visit. If you have any questions about either of these unique cosmetic treatment options, or if you think your smile could benefit from treatment, then please contact our team today. We will schedule a consultation so we can talk about your goals for your smile and examine your teeth. Then, we will decide what procedure or procedures will best correct the appearance and health of your smile.

Do You Have Smile Imperfections?

If you have a chipped tooth, then contact our team today to talk about possible solutions. Don’t let your tooth experience an increased risk of decay or infection. To schedule an appointment to discuss our cosmetic improvement options, contact Healthy Smiles in Gary, IN, by calling 219-938-2637, or by emailing our office at info@healthysmilesnwi.com. We also proudly serve the residents of Gary, Miller, Miller Beach, and all surrounding communities.