Tooth Contouring and Reshaping

About the Procedure

Tooth contouring is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to make subtle alterations to the surface and shape of specific teeth. This kind of treatment is effective for people who have slightly uneven or misshapen teeth, or whose teeth have sustained minor chips or scratches.

The process begins with an x-ray of the teeth to verify that they are sturdy enough to be contoured without becoming structurally compromised. Then a photograph is taken of the target region as a reference point for the dentist to work off of. Then a series of buffing and polishing tools are used to shape the tooth as desired. Imperfections can also be filled in with synthetic, tooth colored laminate as needed.

No anesthesia is used during this process since it is mostly painless. This is due to the fact that the only thing being contacted is the surface enamel of the tooth, which has no sensory receptors. Local anesthesia can be used upon request but is generally not necessary.

Depending upon how extensive the contouring is and the size and number of teeth being done, the procedure can take anywhere from a half hour to nearly two hours to complete. As it is entirely cosmetic in nature, tooth contouring is not covered under most insurance plans.

What to Know Before the Procedure

As with any cosmetic procedure, having specific, realistic goals and openly communicating them to your dentist are of high importance. It should be noted that while the outcome can be noticeable and significant, it is in no way transformative. However, tooth contouring is very often done in combination with other cosmetic dental procedures such as the fitting of crowns or veneers. If you wish to have such additional procedures done, be sure to mention that to your dentist so he or she may advise you about the best order in which to do them. Open communication will avoid disappointment and ensure that you get the results you desire.

Like other forms of cosmetic surgery, there is a certain precision and artistry involved in the procedure. It is a very good idea to ask the dentist you plan on using how often they have performed the procedure; and to take a look at before and after shots of other patients they have worked on to ensure that you are going to be happy with their work. Due to the limited amount of surface enamel there is to shape, the results will be permanent with little opportunity to “redo” the procedure.

It should also be noted that people with dental complications or extensive tooth reconstruction are not ideal candidates for tooth contouring. Be sure to discuss your dental history with your doctor before proceeding with the process.

What to Know After the Procedure

You may temporarily experience a sensitivity to hot and cold in the teeth that have been contoured. This is normal and will subside within a couple of days after the procedure. Patients who have had tooth contouring done do not have to worry about recovery time or healing. They may resume regular daily activity and eating habits right away.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

Since tooth contouring is a precise form of surgery and the desired results are based on personal preference, it is a wise idea to search for the most experienced cosmetic dentist you can find to do this procedure for you. Given that the results will be permanent, it makes sense to travel wherever you need to in order to be in the hands of someone you can have confidence in. Prices will vary by region, but experience and proven results should be the main priority for this type of procedure.