Teeth Contouring

teeth contouring

What is Teeth Contouring?

Tooth reshaping, also called dental contouring, is a cosmetic dentistry technique that removes small amounts of tooth enamel (the outer covering of the tooth) in order to change the shape, length, or surface of one or more teeth. It is a very simple non-invasive way to improve the appearance of the teeth by gently reshaping the teeth. Even slight changes can have amazing results in improving the look of your smile.

Benefits of Teeth Contouring

  • Affordable – Teeth Contouring is an inexpensive way to improve the look of your teeth.
  • Painless –  Because only surface enamel is removed in tooth reshaping and dental contouring, there’s generally no discomfort during the procedure and no anesthesia is required.
  • Improves health of teeth – Removing minor overlaps and other imperfections where tartar and plaque can build up lowers your risk of decay and gum disease.
  • Possible substitute for braces – In some cases, tooth reshaping and dental contouring can eliminate the need for braces.

Is Tooth Countering Right For You?

Dental contouring is best for people who just need minimal adjustments or repairs to improve the look and feel of their teeth. It’s ideal for someone who has a tooth that is a little crooked, too pointy, or one side sticks out more than the other. However, dental reshaping and contouring are not appropriate for people with decaying teeth, root canals, or unhealthy gums.

Sometimes tooth reshaping and dental contouring are the first steps toward more extensive cosmetic dentistry work. Procedures such as veneers, tooth whitening, and crown lengthening can be performed months or even years after tooth reshaping and contouring.

How is it done?

Tooth reshaping is performed using dental instruments and abrasion techniques. Dental X-rays may be taken before the reshaping and contouring begin to ensure that your teeth are healthy. We  then mark your teeth with a pen to highlight areas that need sculpting. A sanding instrument is used to carefully eliminate imperfections on the surface of the teeth, and sandpaper-like strips may be used to contour the sides of the teeth. Lastly, the teeth are smoothed and polished.