Dental Bonding and Contouring in Washington, D.C.

Sometimes, accidents happen. You may take a bad fall and chip a tooth. Sometimes a tooth can get discolored for any number of reasons, such as a medication or illness. Dr. Kenneth Ingber and his team offer dental bonding and contouring to improve small cosmetic flaws at our office in Washington, D.C. A quick, effective cosmetic treatment, bonding and contouring applies composite resin (the same material used for tooth-colored fillings) to hide tooth discoloration, fill gaps between teeth, make a tooth longer, or even change the shape of a tooth. If you want a great way to improve your smile, schedule an appointment to learn more about bonding and contouring at Ingber Dental.

Dental bonding and contouring can improve chips, cracks, gaps, discoloration, tooth length, and other flaws. Bonding and contouring is an affordable cosmetic procedure and can usually be done in one appointment. It also does not need prep work, like veneers or crowns; however, it is not as strong and typically does not stay on as long. Bonding and contouring is ideal for minor flaws so if you want more extensive changes, another cosmetic or restorative procedure may be better. During your consultation, we will listen to your needs and wants and then go over your options.

Dental bonding and contouring will be typically done in one visit at our office in Washington, D.C. You should not need any anesthesia, but options for sedation can be discussed during your consultation for concerns, like fear, anxiety, and a strong gag reflex. Once you are ready, the composite resin will be applied to the needed areas. The composite resin will be hardened with a special light before more layers are added. Once the bonding process is set, the composite resin and your natural teeth will be contoured and polished for an even result.

Once you have had dental bonding and contouring, you should avoid staining foods and drinks (like tea, coffee, and tobacco) for two days. The bonding material can chip and stain so do not bite down on hard objects, such as ice cubes, pens, pencils, and your fingernails, and brush your teeth immediately after eating. Teeth that have been bonded and contoured should be cleaned, like regular teeth, with regular flossing, brushing, and mouthwash. Dental cleanings at Ingber Dental will help to remove stains from the composite resin. With good care, dental bonding can last up to ten years. During your annual dental exam, one of our dental professionals will help you decide if the dental bonding and contouring procedure needs to be redone to maintain your smile.

Dental bonding and contouring is a cosmetic procedure so it is typically not covered by insurance. Our office can contact your insurance company to confirm your coverage, but most patients will pay out-of-pocket for this procedure. At your consultation, we can discuss an estimate of cost and payment options we accept at Ingber Dental.

Bonding and contouring can be a wonderful procedure if you want to enhance minor flaws in your teeth without the expense and time needed for other cosmetic procedures. Find out more about bonding and contouring at your consultation at our office in Washington, D.C. Contact Ingber Dental to schedule your appointment and get started toward a beautiful smile.