When you chip a tooth, you may feel embarrassed about the sudden change to your smile. You may also assume that repairing the issue will be time consuming and require days off work. However, we understand how busy your schedule is and we offer treatments that can repair damage in one visit.
Quiz: Repairing Teeth in One Visit
- True or False: Chipped teeth typically aren’t a big deal.
- True or False: We can repair them with dental bonding.
- True or False: Bonding can address other esthetic issues.
- True or False: We can also perform contouring in the same visit.
Answer Key
- False. In some cases, a chip may be severe enough to expose sensitive inner tooth structure to bacteria, which can allow tooth decay and eventually an infection to form. As a result, we encourage people with damaged teeth to always see the dentist for an exam to find out if they need restoration.
- True. Dental bonding involves removing decay and then etching the tooth before applying multiple layers of composite resin. This is the same material we use for our tooth-colored metal-free fillings. We then mold the material as it cures under a light. Finally, we polish the tooth for a more lifelike appearance. The entire procedure takes one sitting and can restore damaged teeth.
- True. We can also use the procedure to mask permanent teeth stains and to close unsightly gaps between teeth.
- True. Contouring involves removing minuscule layers of tooth structure to correct problems with the tooth’s surface and shape. We can dull overly pointed teeth or buff away pits/grooves in the tooth surface. If you have any questions about bonding and contouring, then please contact our office today. We can discuss whether these procedures can potentially address problems with your tooth’s shade and shape.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
