In a recent blog, we discussed professional whitening options that can help safely remove stains from your teeth. This option is convenient and effective for many patients, but if you have stubborn blemishes or intrinsic discoloration, you may need alternative ways to improve your appearance. The team at Sunny Smiles also offers dental bonding, contouring, and gum contouring that can transform your pearly whites without making drastic changes.
Problems That Dental Bonding Can Improve
Cosmetic bonding may be used for a variety of reasons. Patients may prefer this option when looking to improve blemishes that cannot be corrected with whitening, small gaps between their teeth, minor wear and tear, and more. Professional whitening is a popular method, but intrinsic discoloration cannot be removed with this method. We can disguise the appearance of these spots by adding composite resin to the area. Concerns such as gaps between your teeth or worn down surfaces will first need to be examined to ensure no other restorative work is necessary first. For instance, if you have large gaps in your smile due to misalignment, orthodontic treatment may be required first. If your teeth are worn down or chipped, restorative measures like dental crowns may be recommended instead.
Contouring Can Correct Jagged Teeth
Sometimes, the main concern a patient may have with their smile is jagged, pointy, or overlapping teeth. To correct this, we can remove a small amount of your enamel to create an even and smooth surface. This process is minimally invasive and can be done during the same appointment as bonding. Your dentist will examine the concern you have and determine if this is a good solution for your needs. Many patients choose to combine bonding and contouring to conceal blemishes and create the effect of a symmetrical smile without drastic alterations. A popular benefit of these options is that they can be done in a single appointment and the results will last for many years. The composite resin used for bonding may need to be repaired over time, but the process of contouring is a permanent solution.
Gum Contouring Addresses Uneven Smiles
If you have a “gummy” smile, it could make your teeth appear uneven or lopsided. To correct this, gum contouring can be done. The dentist will gently reshape the tissue around your teeth to expose more of your pearly whites. Small amounts of excess tissue may be removed if necessary. This may also improve your periodontal health, as it can make it easier to clean your gums. Before starting this procedure, you will have a consultation with your dentist.
Learn More About Your Cosmetic Treatment Options
Sunny Smiles Family Dentistry in El Paso, TX, offers a variety of cosmetic treatment options for patients. To schedule an appointment with our team, call us today at 915.759.7000.