With cosmetic dentistry, we can address an array of issues with the overall appearance of your smile. In today’s blog, your Livonia, MI, dentist would like to focus on dental bonding and contouring, two very different procedures that can address multiple esthetic issues in just one sitting. How do you know if these options are right for your smile, and when should you see the dentist to discuss cosmetic dentistry?
The Bonding Process
Dental bonding employs the same composite resin used in our tooth-colored fillings. A metal-free blend of glass and acrylic, this material can actually be shaded to match the color of surrounding tooth structure. Treatment involves removing any decay and then thoroughly cleaning the tooth. We next etch the surface and apply the bonding material in several different layers. We cure the material with a light and then polish the tooth, completing the procedure in one sitting. With this procedure, we can mask permanent teeth stains, which may not respond to most teeth whitening systems. Our team can also repair chipped or cracked teeth, close gaps between the teeth, lengthen worn down teeth, and address issues with the shape and surfaces of your smile.
Contouring Your Teeth
In the same visit, we could also contour your smile. This process doesn’t involve adding material to your teeth. Instead, we gently sand and buff away sections of outer structure to remove rough patches, pits, or grooves, and dull sharp teeth. We can reduce structure on teeth that appear overly large, correct overlapping portions, and address minor chips. In one visit, we can use these options to completely change the appearance of one or more of your teeth.
Other Cosmetic Options
To offer a smile makeover, our team may combine these treatments with other options. For example, we could whiten your teeth first to ensure the bonded portions match your brightest possible smile. We can also use bonding and contouring for side and rear teeth, reserving veneers for the front-facing ones. This way, we help you enjoy a completely transformed smile with one to two visits. If you have misalignment as well as issues with stains and damage, then we can often correct alignment with a series of clear and barely noticeable aligners! If you have any questions about our treatments, or if you would like to schedule consultation and see which ones are right for you, then contact our team today.
Do You Need Cosmetic Dentistry?
Our team is ready to help you enjoy a smile transformation in just one visit. We can address discoloration, misshapen teeth, or other issues to provide a better esthetics without causing you to miss work or school for multiple visits. For more information on our approach to cosmetic dentistry, or to schedule a consultation, call the office of James Stewart, DDS in Livonia, MI, today at (734) 425-4400.