What Is Tooth Contouring And Reshaping?

Tooth contouring is one of the most comfortable, safe, and quick dental procedures which is cosmetic in nature. It is also called dental reshaping or enameloplasty.

It is used as a quick and effective fix for teeth with minor cosmetic issues like overlapping, a long tooth, misshapen teeth, chipped or cracked teeth, etc.

The process is fairly safe and involves removing some portion of the tooth enamel. The tooth enamel is what covers the crown of the tooth and it is a thin outer covering that protects our teeth.

Removal of a portion of the tooth enamel by a trained dentist gives you a tooth with a better surface, better shape, or length according to the desired goal.

Thus, for people with fairly healthy teeth and gums, this is one of the best ways to get a better smile and better-aligned or shaped teeth.

What Exactly Happens During Tooth Reshaping Procedure?

It is a non-invasive procedure where usually desensitisation is not required. An examination of the mouth is carried out.

Teeth and gums are checked. An X-ray film may be taken to assess the pulp and health of teeth.

As the procedure of tooth reshaping involves the removal of a portion of the enamel, it cannot be carried out for fragile or thin teeth.

After the examination, teeth or teeth for treatment are marked and highlighted for teeth contouring.

A LASER or a special drill will be used by your dentist to remove a small amount of enamel to reshape the tooth.

Both the shape and size of the tooth as well as its alignment can be changed using this process. 

Chips are smoothed while tooth edges are shaped to match other teeth or as desired by the patient.

This is a process that lasts for a little over 30 minutes during which teeth alignment is checked followed by polishing the teeth. 

The enamel is not usually sensitive but if there is a sensitivity problem, a numbing agent may be used when removing it.

Additionally, tooth bonding may be done in the same session for smaller teeth, to enhance the shape, fill gaps, etc., using tooth-colored resin.

The best part according to many is that a single visit is enough to correct a tooth or two. Tooth contouring when needed for more than one or two teeth may require a few more visits which don’t take too long.

Also Read: The Importance Of Dental Bridges: Why You Need One?

How Long Does Tooth Contouring Last?

As it is, this is a permanent procedure. When one practices good oral hygiene and takes care of contoured teeth, the results will be long-lasting.

But with age or changes, there is always a chance of chipping. So if you were wondering how long dental contouring will last, now you know the answer.

What About Tooth Contouring After Braces?

Reshaping of teeth is sometimes done before or along with braces and bonding. If there are some minor unresolved issues after the braces are removed, then also contouring can be used to correct those minor issues. Similarly, shaving of teeth or contouring may be done before applying veneers.

Does Contouring Damage Your Teeth?

This is a cosmetic procedure that is safe under the hands of an experienced dentist. But cosmetic tooth contouring does involve thinning of the enamel as a part of this procedure.

This does increase the chances of tooth sensitivity, wearing down with time, chipping, etc. Most people do well by taking due precautions and by practicing good oral hygiene.

Does Reshaping Your Teeth Hurt?

The procedure of tooth reshaping is not painful in itself. The enamel is devoid of nerve endings but some people may have sensitive teeth. In such cases, numbing agents or local anesthesia may be used.

At Morgan Hill Dentistry, we ensure that this procedure is comfortable for you. To be precise, this procedure does not hurt.

Who Should Go For Dental Reshaping And Contouring?

If you are looking for a quick procedure to get a beautiful smile, this procedure will be suitable for you.

But you should know that only minor imperfections can be corrected and that too for those with healthy gums and teeth. It can be used to correct malalignment, cover chips, fill grooves, etc. 

There can be a period of increased sensitivity to cold and heat.  Your dentist is the best person to decide whether this procedure is suitable for you or not.

How To Care For Your Reshaped Or Contoured Teeth?

As with any dental procedure or general health of your oral cavity, it is really important to maintain good oral hygiene.

This is a dental restoration process where the teeth become thinner due to the removal of enamel.

Bonding does add some strength to your teeth. But whether you have only gone for teeth contouring or bonding as well, you need to be extra careful to avoid chipping and staining.

Avoid drinks and food like coffee, tea, etc., which can stain your teeth. Avoid biting or chewing hard food.

Also, avoid using your teeth to open things. Use a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your teeth. Avoid sodas and sugary foods.

Pay attention to your nutrition. Pay regular visits to your dentist. This is a procedure that takes very less time and is economical as well. You can really benefit from it if this is suitable for you.

Plan your next visit to Morgan Hill Dentistry, which is also an emergency dental clinic, soon!

With our dental specialists, you can expect the best care and treatment designed personally for each patient.

Here, you will be given a clear picture of what to expect and which treatment is most suitable for you.