How can dental bonding improve your smile. What are the benefits of gum contouring. Is teeth whitening right for you. Discover the power of conservative cosmetic dentistry treatments.

The Power of Conservative Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way, offering solutions that are both effective and minimally invasive. Katie’s story is a testament to how small changes can make a significant impact on one’s smile and confidence. Let’s explore the treatments that transformed Katie’s smile and how they might benefit you.

Understanding Dental Bonding: A Versatile Solution

Dental bonding is a popular cosmetic procedure that can address a variety of smile imperfections. But what exactly is it?

What is Dental Bonding?

Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin to the teeth to improve their appearance. This versatile treatment can fix:

• Gaps between teeth
• Chips and cracks
• Stains and discoloration
• Minor cavities
• Misshapen teeth
• Uneven or irregularly sized teeth
• Teeth that appear too small

The Dental Bonding Process

Curious about how dental bonding works? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Color matching: Your dentist selects a composite resin that matches your natural tooth shade.
2. Preparation: The tooth surface is lightly etched, and a bonding agent is applied to ensure adhesion.
3. Application: The dentist carefully applies the tooth-colored resin.
4. Shaping: The material is molded to hide flaws and achieve the desired result.
5. Curing: An ultraviolet light hardens the resin.
6. Polishing: The bonded tooth is polished to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth.

One of the most appealing aspects of dental bonding is that it can typically be completed in a single appointment.

Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding

Like any dental procedure, bonding has its advantages and limitations. Let’s weigh them:

Pros:

• Single appointment procedure
• Painless (often no anesthetic required)
• Can last up to 10 years
• Natural look and feel
• Addresses most smile imperfections
• More affordable than veneers
• Preserves tooth structure

Cons:

• Shorter lifespan compared to veneers or crowns
• Less durable than veneers or crowns
• Not stain-resistant
• Susceptible to chips and breaks

Gum Contouring: Reshaping Your Smile’s Frame

While teeth often take center stage in smile makeovers, the gums play a crucial role in framing your smile. Gum contouring can dramatically enhance your smile’s appearance.

What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring, also known as gum reshaping, is a procedure that sculpts the gum line to:

• Remove excess gum tissue causing a “gummy smile”
• Elongate the appearance of teeth
• Create a symmetrical gum line

The Gum Contouring Process

Wondering what to expect during a gum contouring procedure? Here’s an overview:

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthetic is administered for your comfort.
2. Reshaping: Your dentist uses a soft tissue laser or scalpel to sculpt the gum line.
3. Finishing: In some cases, sutures may be used to aid healing.

The procedure typically takes one to two hours to complete.

Benefits of Gum Contouring

Gum contouring offers several advantages:

• One-appointment treatment
• Permanent results
• No alteration to tooth structure
• Potential improvement in oral health
• Enhancement of your smile’s natural beauty

Teeth Whitening: The Finishing Touch

A bright, white smile can make a world of difference in your appearance and confidence. Teeth whitening is often the simplest and most cost-effective way to enhance your smile.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes stains and discoloration from teeth, restoring them to a brighter, more youthful appearance.

Types of Teeth Whitening

There are several options for teeth whitening:

• In-office professional whitening
• At-home professional whitening kits
• Over-the-counter whitening products

Professional whitening, whether in-office or at-home, typically yields the most dramatic and long-lasting results.

Combining Treatments for Optimal Results

As demonstrated in Katie’s case, combining multiple conservative treatments can lead to stunning smile transformations. Let’s explore how these treatments work together.

The Synergy of Bonding, Contouring, and Whitening

When used in combination, these treatments can address multiple aspects of your smile:

• Dental bonding closes gaps and improves tooth shape and size
• Gum contouring enhances the frame of your smile
• Teeth whitening provides the finishing touch of brightness

Together, they create a harmonious, natural-looking smile improvement.

Is Conservative Cosmetic Dentistry Right for You?

Conservative cosmetic dentistry offers numerous benefits, but is it the right choice for everyone? Let’s consider some factors:

Ideal Candidates

You may be an ideal candidate for conservative cosmetic dentistry if:

• You have minor to moderate smile imperfections
• You want to improve your smile without extensive dental work
• You prefer to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible
• You’re looking for a cost-effective smile enhancement solution

When to Consider More Extensive Treatment

In some cases, more comprehensive treatments may be necessary:

• Severe misalignment or bite issues may require orthodontics
• Significant tooth damage might call for veneers or crowns
• Extensive gum issues could necessitate periodontal surgery

A consultation with a skilled cosmetic dentist can help determine the best approach for your unique situation.

The Impact of a Smile Makeover

A smile makeover, even a conservative one, can have far-reaching effects on your life. Let’s explore some of these impacts.

Boost in Self-Confidence

Many patients, like Katie, report a significant increase in self-confidence after their smile makeover. This newfound confidence can positively influence various aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional opportunities.

Improved Oral Health

While the primary goal of cosmetic dentistry is aesthetic improvement, many treatments can also benefit your oral health. For example, closing gaps between teeth can make them easier to clean, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease.

Long-Term Benefits

Investing in your smile can yield long-term benefits. A more attractive smile can motivate you to maintain better oral hygiene habits, potentially reducing the need for extensive dental work in the future.

Maintaining Your New Smile

After investing in a smile makeover, it’s crucial to maintain your results. Here are some tips for preserving your new smile:

Daily Care

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Floss at least once a day
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash

Regular Dental Check-ups

Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain your oral health and the longevity of your cosmetic treatments.

Lifestyle Considerations

To protect your investment:

• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
• Limit staining foods and beverages
• Use a straw when drinking dark-colored beverages
• Consider wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth

Conservative cosmetic dentistry offers a path to a more beautiful smile without extensive dental work. As Katie’s story illustrates, sometimes small changes can make a big difference. Whether you’re bothered by gaps, discoloration, or the shape of your teeth, treatments like dental bonding, gum contouring, and teeth whitening can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

Remember, every smile is unique, and what worked for Katie may not be the exact solution for you. A consultation with a skilled cosmetic dentist can help you explore your options and develop a personalized treatment plan. With today’s advanced techniques and materials, a stunning smile makeover may be more accessible than you think.

Are you ready to transform your smile? Take the first step by scheduling a consultation with a cosmetic dentist near you. You might be surprised at how easily and affordably you can enhance your smile and boost your confidence. Your perfect smile is waiting – why not unveil it today?

Dental Bonding Before and After Photos | Smile Makeover

Cosmetic Dentistry |8 min read

published January 6, 2021Last updated July 25, 2022

You know the saying, “Little things make a big difference”?

Well, that couldn’t be more true for today’s case study.

You’ll get to see how easy it was for Katie, a real patient, to improve her smile.

Best of all?

Her cosmetic dentistry treatments were quick, painless, and affordable.

Why Katie wanted a better smile

In her own words,

“I never liked the spacing between my front teeth and how they looked small.”

She felt that her old smile wasn’t what she wanted to show off to the world.

But she didn’t know her options.

You see, she liked her smile, but she wasn’t in love with it.

She wasn’t looking for an invasive or irreversible smile makeover, just a conservative way to improve her smile’s natural beauty.

So, she scheduled a complimentary consultation with our Fargo dentist, Dr. Derek Harnish.

The solution?

Based on Katie’s desired goal and budget, Dr. Harnish recommended:

• Esthetic bonding: Hides smile imperfections by adding tooth-colored composite resin onto a tooth.
• Gum contouring: Reshapes the gum line to alter the appearance of teeth’s length and remove gummy smiles.
• Teeth whitening: Removes stains and discoloration and whitens teeth, making them look healthy, youthful, and attractive.

The result?

Here’s what each treatment accomplished:

1. Esthetic bonding (also known as tooth bonding, dental bonding, or cosmetic bonding) closed gaps between her front teeth. It also made her teeth a more proportionate size in retrospect to her facial features.
2. Gum contouring (also known as gum reshaping) made her teeth appear longer and gave symmetry along the gum line.
3. Teeth whitening transformed her dull, old smile into a vibrant, memorable smile.

Do you know what all these treatments have in common?

They didn’t remove ANY healthy tooth structure!

This was an especially wise decision for someone as young as Katie to save healthy tooth enamel and structure for down the road.

Katie’s new smile after dental bonding, gum contouring, and whitening

What does Katie have to say about her smile now?

“Now I have no hesitation smiling with beautiful teeth that complement me!”

Katie is a great example that sometimes you don’t need extensive dental work to achieve a better-looking smile.

Treatments like esthetic bonding, gum contouring, and teeth whitening will do the trick!

Plus, they’re generally pain-free, less expensive than veneers or orthodontics, and done in one appointment.

Want to learn more about Katie’s treatments?

Dr. Harnish answers the top FAQs below!

What you need to know about dental bonding, gum contouring, and whitening

These conservative treatments may be all you need to fall in love with your smile!

What is dental bonding?

Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry treatment used to fix almost any smile imperfection, including:

• Gaps between teeth.
• Chips and cracks.
• Stains and discoloration.
• Minor cavities.
• Mishappen teeth.
• Uneven or irregularly shaped or sized teeth.
• Teeth that are too small.

How does dental bonding work?

Here’s a quick overview of esthetic bonding in Fargo, ND:

• Dr. Harnish chooses a dental composite resin color that matches your tooth shade.
• Your tooth’s surface is lightly etched, and a liquid agent is applied (this ensures the bonding material sticks and lasts).
• The tooth-colored composite resin is carefully applied.
• Dr. Harnish shapes the material to hide flaws, look natural, and achieve your desired result.
• The material is hardened with an ultraviolet light.
• Dr. Harnish polishes the tooth to blend in with your surrounding teeth.

Cosmetic bonding usually takes one appointment!

What are the pros vs. cons of dental bonding?

Pros:

• Only takes one appointment.
• Procedure is painless (you may not even need an anesthetic for bonding or whitening!).
• Lasts up to 10 years.
• Looks and feels natural.
• Hides most smile imperfections.
• Less expensive than veneers.
• Doesn’t remove tooth structure.

Cons:

• Doesn’t last as long as veneers or crowns.
• Not as durable as veneers or crowns.
• Not stain-resistant.
• Subject to chips and breaks depending on use.

What is gum contouring?

Gum contouring reshapes your gum line to:

• Remove excess gum tissue that gives off “gummy smiles. ”
• Make your teeth look longer.
• Give you a symmetrical gum line.

How does gum contouring work?

Before your procedure, you’ll be numbed with a local anesthetic, so you’re comfortable and pain-free.

Then, your dentist will resculpt your gum line with a soft tissue laser or scalpel. If extensive work is needed, sutures may be used for healing.

Gum contouring usually takes one to two hours.

The benefits of gum contouring:

• You’re done in one appointment.
• Permanent results.
• Doesn’t alter any tooth structure.
• Can improve oral health.
• Enhances your smile’s natural beauty.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is usually the easiest and most affordable way to improve your smile.

This treatment removes stains and discoloration and makes your teeth whiter and brighter.

There are a ton of different brands, but the two main types are:

• Over-the-counter teeth whitening: What you buy at the store (like Target), has a weaker whitening solution, and requires multiple sessions.
• Professional teeth whitening: Provided by a dentist (usually an in-office treatment or take-home trays), has a stronger whitening solution, and can be customized to your goal.

The benefits of professional teeth whitening:

• Removes surface and intrinsic (deep) stains.
• Longer-lasting results than over-the-counter.
• Helps you look healthy, youthful, and attractive.
• Creates a lasting first impression.
• Minimizes the appearance of smile flaws.
• Can whiten your smile up to 8 shades lighter in only one appointment.
• Ability to minimize gum irritation and tooth sensitivity (common side effects of generic tooth whitening).

Are these procedures permanent?

Dental bonding is not permanent. On average, dental bonding will last 5 to 10 years. It’ll eventually need to be replaced or touched up due to wear and tear or discoloration.

Where the bonding is placed plays a large role in how long it’ll last. Generally, if it’s on a tooth used to bite or chew food, it’ll need replacing more often.

If this is the case for you, you can maximize its longevity by avoiding habits like chewing on ice, biting down hard, or using your teeth to open things like packages. Just remember, tooth bonding is not as strong as your natural teeth!

Another thing to keep in mind:

Bonding is not stain-resistant. If you smoke or drink dark beverages, such as coffee and wine, your bonding material will stain more quickly.

Gum contouring is permanent. You don’t have to worry about it ever again!

And lastly:

Teeth whitening is not permanent. To keep your smile white year-round, you’ll need to maintain it with in-office or at-home treatments.

How long your teeth whitening results last will depend on your habits like consuming stain-causing foods or drinks, oral hygiene, etc. It can vary between a few months and a few years.

But the good news is:

Professional teeth whitening is stronger and more effective than over-the-counter methods, so your results will last longer!

How much do they cost?

The costs vary a lot depending on where you live, the extent of work needed, materials used, etc.

To give you a baseline, here are the average costs in the United States:

• The average cost of dental bonding… This text opens a new tab to the article on teeth bonding costs… is $300 to $600 per tooth.
• The average cost of gum contouring… This text opens a new tab to the article on gum contouring costs… is $50 to $350 per tooth.
• The average cost of professional teeth whitening… This text opens a new tab to article on whitening costs… is $100 to $650.

To find out exactly how much any of these treatments will cost you at Arch Dental, schedule a complimentary consultation!

Are they covered by insurance?

Most dental insurance plans will not cover dental bonding, gum contouring, or teeth whitening because they’re considered cosmetic.

However, if you need dental bonding for preventative or restorative reasons, insurance may cover it.

To find out about your insurance coverage, call them for confirmation.

Are these services worth it?

Generally speaking:

Yes! Dental bonding, gum contouring, and teeth whitening are all worth it if you’re looking for an inexpensive, non-invasive, and quick way to improve your smile. Katie is proof!

But ultimately:

It’s up to you!

To know for certain, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a cosmetic dentist near you. Then, you can discuss your unique smile, goals, and weigh your different options.

Want Dr. Harnish’s professional opinion?

Contact Arch Dental for a complimentary consultation for cosmetic dentistry in Fargo, ND.

In only three easy steps, you’ll get Dr. Harnish’s expert opinion on how to improve your smile, and he’ll answer any questions or concerns you have.

Or you can:

• Call us: 701-235-6075
• Email us: [email protected]

Our office is located in Fargo, ND… opens in a new window to Google Maps… and serves surrounding communities, including Moorhead, West Fargo, Oakport, Dilworth, Horace, Sabin, Detroit Lakes, Lisbon, Bismarck, and Grand Forks.

Dental Boding Before & After Photos

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Bonding Photosdevops2020-12-23T09:54:08+00:00

The following examples include some close-up before and after photos of bonding done at Palm Beach Smiles in Boynton Beach. The close-ups help to demonstrate how skillfully applied bonding can nearly replicate natural tooth structure.

If they look real this close-up, you can be confident they’ll look great in your social encounters.

Bonding After Braces

A concerned mother walked into our office one day to ask about bringing her 13-year-old daughter. Her daughter was born without her lateral incisors (the two front side teeth). She had braces, which moved her canines (pointy “eye teeth”) into the position of her missing front side teeth. But, pointy teeth don’t look “right” there. So her orthodontist sent her to a general dentist to do some bonding to make them look more like they should. Mom and daughter were not happy with the result. So, mom did some research with the help of the internet and found us.

Before – This patient felt her side teeth were too short and dark.

Close-up After!

Closing Teeth Gaps / Spaces with Bonding

This patient didn’t like the gaps between her teeth. She consulted with another dentist, who suggested that braces was the best option, even though she had braces before. Dr. Barr and she agreed that conservative bonding was an excellent option. No drilling was done at all. So, the process could be reversed in the future, if desired. She loves her new look and said she will no longer have to hide her smile.

Repairing Chipped Tooth with Composite Bonding

A young woman fell down and fractured her front tooth. We were able to repair her tooth the same day with a bonded restoration. With the final result, it looks like nothing ever happened to her tooth. She can smile again!

Before

After

Replacing Old Bonding with New Bonding

Kathy had a space closed between her two front teeth with bonding several years ago and then again more recently. She didn’t like the result and came to Palm Beach Smiles to see what we could do. Notice the dull and flat appearance of the bonding in the before photo. We removed the existing bonding and redid it with excellent results. Notice the shine, texture, and color shading that now matches the neighboring teeth.

Before

After

Closing Spaces with Bonding

This patient was concerned about the spaces between his front teeth. He also wanted the chipped teeth repaired. Treatment options were discussed, including orthodontics. However, this patient did not want braces. Another option was Porcelain Veneers. The alternative solution was Direct Bonding. While Porcelain Veneers will last longer, Bonding fit this patient’s current budget. This was accomplished in one appointment. The final result is simply amazing.

Close Up Before

Close Up After

Smile Before

Incredible!

Chipped Tooth Repair with Bonding

This patient had been living with this chipped tooth for several years. Prior to repairing the tooth, we whitened his upper teeth. Upon completion of the whitening process, a bonded composite restoration recreated the lost tooth structure. The result is very pleasing and has a natural appearance.

Before

Close Up After

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what you need to know – Drink-Drink

Contents

• What is tooth bonding? How it works?
• Why glue teeth?
• Is there a risk of tooth bonding?
• How much does bonding of teeth cost?
• How to prepare for teeth gluing
• How to care for glued teeth
• Conclusion

If you have chips, cracks or a bleached tooth, cosmetic dental procedure, such as gluing tooths, can give you confidence to sparkle with pearl-white teeth.

Tooth bonding is a procedure in which your dentist applies tooth-colored composite resin to one or more of your teeth to repair damage. This is an economical solution as it is significantly less expensive than other cosmetic dental procedures such as crowns and veneers.

Here’s what you need to know about the process and the risks and costs associated with bonding teeth.

What is tooth bonding? How it works?

Bonding teeth is easier than other cosmetic dental procedures. So simple, in fact, that the procedure usually doesn’t require anesthesia – unless you’re filling a cavity – and doesn’t require multiple visits to the dentist.

To begin the process, your dentist uses a shade chart to select the resin resin color that best matches your natural teeth. Your dentist roughens the surface of the tooth and then applies a liquid that allows the adhesive to adhere to the tooth.

Your dentist applies the composite resin to the liquid, shapes or molds the tooth, and then cures with UV light.

If necessary, your dentist can reshape the tooth after the resin has set.

Why glue teeth?

Bonding teeth can correct a defect or imperfection within a tooth. Some people use bonding to restore a decayed, cracked, or discolored tooth. This procedure can also close small gaps between teeth.

Bonding of teeth can also increase the size of the tooth. For example, you have a tooth that is shorter than the others and you want them all to be the same length.

Bonding is a quick procedure with no downtime. If you do not need anesthesia, you can continue with your normal daily routine after the procedure.

Teeth bonding usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Some appointments may take longer depending on the scope of the procedure.

Is there a risk of tooth bonding?

Dental bonding does not carry any major risks.

Please note that the composite resin used in this procedure is not as strong as your natural teeth.

Material may chip or separate from the actual tooth. However, chipping or breakage is not as common with a crown, veneer, or filling.

A bonded tooth can break if you eat ice, chew pens or pencils, bite your nails, or bite into hard foods or candy.

Resin is also not as stain resistant as other dental materials. You may develop some discoloration if you smoke or drink a lot of coffee.

How much does bonding of teeth cost?

The cost of bonding teeth varies depending on the location, scope of the procedure and experience of the dentist.

On average, you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 per tooth. You will need to replace the bonding approximately every 5-10 years.

Check with your dental insurance provider before making an appointment. Some insurers consider bonding teeth a cosmetic procedure and will not cover the cost.

How to prepare for bonding teeth

Bonding teeth does not require special preparation. But you need to check with your dentist to see if you are a good fit for this procedure.

Bonding may not work if you have severe damage or cavities. Instead, you may need a veneer or crown.

How to care for bonded teeth

Dental care helps prolong the life of bonded teeth. Self-care tips include:

• brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily
• avoiding hard foods and sweets
• not biting your nails
• avoiding coffee, tea, and tobacco for the first two days after procedures to avoid stains
• scheduling regular brushing every six months

Contact your dentist if you accidentally chip or break bonding material, or if you feel any sharp or rough edges after the procedure.

Conclusion

A healthy smile is a guarantee of self-confidence. If you have discoloration, a chipped tooth, or a gap and are looking for an inexpensive repair, see your dentist for advice.

Your dentist can determine if this procedure is right for you and, if not, recommend other options to improve the appearance of your teeth.

Restoration with composite

Home \ Services \ Restoration of anterior teeth \ Restoration with composite

Restoration of teeth with light-curing composite materials is a direct method of restoration. It is carried out directly in the patient’s oral cavity, the doctor forms a new tooth right on the spot.

If the destruction of hard dental tissues is not more than 1⁄3, it is possible to restore the front teeth with composite materials. Taking into account the increased aesthetic requirements for such direct restorations of tooth enamel and dentine, we use especially aesthetic classes of gel composites. Consistently restoring layer by layer, achieving full color similarity of the photopolymer filling with the tissues of the front teeth. After polishing and applying a transparent glaze layer, the artistic restoration of the anterior teeth fully meets the patient’s expectations.

↓ examples of work

fillings, the dentist must carefully observe all stages of the restoration of teeth with composite materials. The clinical protocol for installing a composite filling (restoration) contains the following sequence of actions:

• Formation of the boundaries (edges) of the cavity of the planned filling.
• If the tooth contains nerves, and the cavity of the future filling has reached the dentin, sealing (isolation) of the dentin is performed.
• To prevent chemical burns of the pulp with a composite, it is necessary to install a gasket, first calcium (medical), then glass ionomer cement (insulating).
• To equalize the tone of the fluid in the dentinal tubules, the open dentinal tubules are conditioned (wetted) with dentinal conditioners.
• A bonding system is applied to hold the composite material in the cavity of the planned tooth restoration.
• Composite material is introduced into the prepared cavity and polymerized with ultraviolet light until it hardens completely.
• The finished restoration is bite-adjusted, polished and clear-coated.

Violations of any stage lead to a reduction in the service life and possible loss of the composite filling.

PLUS:

• Restoration is performed in one session. Moreover, several teeth can be restored in one visit. But in this case, the patient will need a lot of strength and patience, since with a large amount of work, you will need to spend several hours in the dental chair.
• Relatively low cost: composite restoration of teeth is the most affordable option for restoring teeth (compared to crowns or veneers).

MINUSES:

• The service life of composite restorations is 4-5 times shorter than that of ceramic veneers (indirect restorations).
• The loss of gloss and “presentation” of composite restorations begins 2-3 years after their installation (for example, veneers remain in their original form for the entire period of operation).
• The strength of composite materials is lower than that of zirconia or ceramic veneers.
• If more than 1/2 of the tooth crown is destroyed, restoration with composite material is not recommended. Large fillings (and restoration is essentially a “filling”, only highly artistic) are not able to redistribute the load on the tooth, as a result of which it is chipped, or more often, the wall of your tooth is chipped, which can lead to its loss.