Dental Bonding and Contouring in Chevy Chase, MD

As you make your way through life, accidents are bound to happen. For example, maybe you endure a bad fall and chip a tooth. In addition to chipping a tooth, you could have a discolored tooth resulting from medication, illness, or poor dental care habits. To combat these situations, experienced dentist Dr. Despina Markogiannakis offers dental bonding and contouring to fix minor cosmetic flaws at her office in Chevy Chase, MD. A fast but effective cosmetic treatment, dental bonding and contouring is performed by applying a composite resin (the same material used for tooth-colored fillings) to mask tooth discoloration, reduce spaces between gapped teeth, make a tooth longer, or even change the shape of a tooth. If you are in need of a treatment to improve the appearance of your smile, schedule a consultation to learn more about dental bonding and contouring at our dental office, Smiles of Chevy Chase.

Bonding and contouring can help with cracks, chips, gaps, discoloration, short teeth, general tooth shape, and more. Bonding and contouring is an affordable cosmetic dental treatment that can normally be done in one single visit. Dental bonding and contouring doesn’t require the prep work of veneers or crowns; however, it often isn’t as durable as these other alternatives. Bonding and contouring is best for minor cosmetic flaws so if you need more extensive changes, another cosmetic or restorative procedure may be a better option. During your consultation, Dr. Markogiannakis will listen to your needs and concerns and then go over your best treatment options.

Dental bonding and contouring can be usually performed in one visit at our office in Chevy Chase, MD. You should not require any anesthesia. Regardless, your extensive sedation options can be discussed with Dr. Markogiannakis during your consultation if you experience any dental fears and anxieties, or if you have a strong gag reflex. Once you are comfortable, Dr. Markogiannakis will begin applying the composite resin to the necessary areas of your teeth with the help of her dental assistant. The bonding material will be hardened with a special light before more layers are added. Once the bonding process is complete, Dr. Markogiannakis will contour and polish both the resin and your natural teeth for an even finish.

After dental bonding and contouring, you should avoid consuming staining foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, and tobacco) for at least 48 hours. The composite bonding material can chip and stain so you shouldn't bite down on hard objects, such as ice cubes, hard candy, fingernails, and pens. In the days following your procedure, it is vital to brush your teeth as soon as possible after eating. Bonded teeth should be cleaned just like your natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. Professional dental cleanings at Smiles of Chevy Chase will help to remove stains from the composite resin. With proper care, dental bonding can last up to ten years. During your annual dental exam, Dr. Markogiannakis will help you decide if the bonding and contouring procedure needs to be redone to maintain your results.

Dental bonding and contouring is a cosmetic procedure so it is generally not covered by dental insurance. Our front office can contact your insurance company to confirm your coverage, but most patients will pay out-of-pocket for this procedure. During your consultation with Dr. Markogiannakis, she can go over an estimate of cost and payment options we accept at Smiles of Chevy Chase.

Dental bonding and contouring can be a great option if you want to improve the appearance of your smile without the expense and time needed for other cosmetic treatments. Learn more about the benefits of cosmetic bonding and contouring during a consultation with Dr. Markogiannakis at her office in Chevy Chase, MD. Contact Smiles of Chevy Chase to schedule your appointment and get started toward a beautiful and healthy smile.