Tooth bonding and contouring can correct the flawed appearance of a tooth. Contouring is a process where your dentist can remove small amounts of enamel from a tooth, in order to reduce its size, or correct for a misshapen appearance. Your dentist can use tooth bonding to restore the appearance of a tooth that is damaged or discolored, as well as to close an unsightly gap between two teeth. Depending on the severity of your issues, tooth bonding and contouring can perform specific corrections to your teeth that can dramatically improve your smile.
Functions Of Bonding And Contouring
Tooth bonding uses composite resin to cover the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen, damaged, and/or discolored. It can also be used to correct for the appearance of an undersized tooth. Contouring can smooth out chips in a tooth, correct for a jagged edge, or reduce its size. The two procedures are commonly done in tandem to improve the look of the affected tooth. They can be used to cover signs of physical damage to a tooth, or to make a localized cosmetic improvement.
Alternatives To Bonding And Contouring
Bonding and contouring may not be adequate to treat a tooth that has suffered significant physical damage. In this case, your dentist may recommend covering the damaged tooth with a dental crown. A crown can be made to appear life-like, so that it does not interfere with your appearance. If you want to make cosmetic improvements to several teeth, you may be a candidate for porcelain veneers, which can hide a range of dental flaws.
