Dents

A dent is an indentation or depression in a material’s surface caused by localized plastic deformation, usually resulting from an impact or sustained pressure. Dents are not typically cracks or cuts; they involve displacement of the surface rather than fracture of the material. The severity of a dent depends on its depth, diameter, curvature, and the thickness and hardness of the material, as well as any coatings or finishes.

Dents are most commonly observed on metal surfaces, such as automobile body panels, household appliances, or metal architectural elements, where a force dents the surface and may dent the underlying layer or paint. They can also occur in metal cans and other containers. In plastics and composites, dents are also possible and may involve surface whitening or localized plastic flow. The presence of a dent can compromise aesthetics, aerodynamic properties, or corrosion resistance if coatings are damaged.

Repair and restoration methods vary with context. In automotive repair, paintless dent repair uses specialized tools to reverse the deformation without repainting, while larger dents with paint damage may require conventional body filling and repainting. In other products, patching, reshaping, or replacement of the part may be necessary.

Prevention focuses on reducing exposure to impacts and protecting surfaces, such as using protective films, careful handling, or impact-absorbing design. Dent measurement typically involves gauges or imaging to assess depth and diameter, aiding repair decisions or quality control.