5 Ways Tooth Contouring Can Reshape Your Teeth

Tooth reshaping, or dental contouring, is an incredible cosmetic dentistry treatment that quickly removes minor amounts of tooth enamel to change the shape or length of one or more teeth. This procedure is highly effective for quickly and painlessly altering teeth that are chipped, cracked, or overlapping. In certain situations where imperfections are minor, dental contouring may even be a substitute for braces. This procedure offers patients a subtle yet noticeable change to their smile while creating better overall health.  

How Dental Contouring Works 

When a skilled and trained cosmetic dentist uses the technique, tooth contouring can be performed with little to no patient discomfort. Before having the procedure, dental x-rays will be taken to evaluate the size and location of the pulp of each tooth to ensure that there is enough bone between the teeth to provide proper support. Your dentist will then gently start to remove a small amount of tooth enamel with a laser or drill. Your provider will trim any misshapen areas, excessively long teeth will be shortened, and poorly shaped teeth will be evened out for proper bite and alignment. After the contouring is complete, your dentist will polish your teeth for a natural-looking shine. Depending on the extent of the contouring recommended, reshaping may take just one 30 minute appointment to transform your teeth. 

Benefits of Tooth Contouring

Tooth contouring treatments are considered a cosmetic dental procedure that produces quick and noticeable results. This treatment is ideal for reshaping the teeth and correcting minor imperfections. 

Top benefits of tooth contouring include:

• Only one appointment is necessary
• The treatment typically takes less than an hour to complete
• There is no associated pain or discomfort during or after treatment 
• Results are permanent

Minor Cosmetic Issues Contouring Can Fix 

Tooth contouring is designed to fix minor cosmetic issues with your teeth. Your tooth enamel is only 2.28mm thick, and some remaining enamel is necessary to ensure your teeth remain healthy and protected for many years to come. Enamel is needed to protect your overall dental health and to keep your teeth from becoming sensitive. 

Tooth contouring can help to address the following:

• Slightly misshapen teeth
• Overly long teeth
• Minor chips or cracks along the edge of a tooth
• Minor crowding 
• Minor positioning issues

Tips For Keeping Teeth Healthy After Treatment 

The main concern with tooth recontouring is that it will leave your teeth slightly thinner. This can make your smile more sensitive to hot and cold sensations. It's also necessary to protect your teeth from abrasive substances, and remember to brush with care to prevent damaging any remaining enamel. The best tip for keeping your newly altered teeth in great shape is to continue an excellent dental regimen. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice a day will help keep your teeth white and stain-free after your treatment. 

Other tips for keeping teeth healthy after contouring include:

• Avoiding sugar-filled beverages or snacks
• Adding extra calcium into your diet or take a supplement 
• Use a non-abrasive toothpaste 
• Do not grind your teeth or clench your jaw
• Maintain great dental hygiene
• See your dentist regularly for checkups

Are Your Teeth Contouring Candidates?

Dental contouring is an incredibly simple and straightforward process. Suppose you're interested in learning more about contouring, bonding, or other cosmetic dentistry treatments to address any minor imperfections in your smile. In that case, an initial exam is a great place to start. Following an exam, we will confirm if your teeth are healthy if you have sufficient enamel for the procedure, and if you are a great candidate for the treatment. Contact Tompkins Dental today to learn more about tooth contouring and if this treatment is right for you.