Did you know that our teeth are coated in the hardest substance in the human body? Tooth enamel is very strong, protecting our teeth from harmful bacteria as well as damage. However, this doesn’t mean our smiles are immune to damage. When a tooth becomes chipped, what are our options? Fortunately, we can help reshape the tooth with two simple cosmetic treatments: bonding and contouring.
Dental Bonding
First, the doctor will remove any decay and then he will gently etch the tooth surface. The etching allows the material to better adhere to the tooth. The bonding material is composite resin; the same material we use for white fillings. After applying several layers, the doctor can mold and sculpt the tooth as the composite resin cures under a light. The entire procedure can be completed in a single visit. We may recommend bonding to:
- Mask teeth stains
- Repair chipped teeth
- Close gaps between teeth
- Reshape malformed teeth
Dental Contouring
Contouring is typically performed in the same visit as bonding. Instead of adding to the tooth, we buff away a small amount of surface enamel. We do this to remove any pits or grooves in the tooth’s surface. We can also use the procedure to dull overly pointed teeth or aid in reshaping a damaged/malformed tooth.
Why Repair Damaged Teeth?
We always recommend a patient have a damaged tooth repaired. When a tooth becomes chipped or otherwise damaged, bacteria now have access to more sensitive inner tooth structure, allowing a cavity to form. Without treatment, cavities can soon lead to infections, causing serious discomfort. An infection can reach the point that a tooth requires extraction. To maintain a whole and healthy smile, always have damaged teeth checked out by your dentist. If you have any questions about repairing teeth, then contact our office today.
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.
