Teeth Reshaping
Tooth reshaping can improve the appearance of your smile, boost your self-confidence, and help you feel better about your teeth.
Some people use braces to improve their smile, yet tooth reshaping is a low-cost alternative. Although it’s an option, this cosmetic procedure — also known as dental contouring — isn’t right for everyone.
What is tooth reshaping?
Tooth reshaping, also known as odontoplasty, is a convenient, low-cost cosmetic dentistry procedure for fixing a tooth that’s chipped, uneven, misaligned, or cracked.
This quick and painless procedure involves removing some of the tooth enamel, and then shaping or lengthening a problem tooth.
To achieve a desired shape, your dentist might also apply a tooth-colored bonding resin that attaches to and hardens on your teeth.
How does tooth reshaping work?
For the most part, tooth reshaping is a simple, fast process. The first step is to have a dental examination and X-rays, so your dentist can check the health of your teeth and gums.
Your dentist will also check your enamel. If you have weak or thin enamel, your dentist will likely recommend another procedure, such as dental veneers.
Getting veneers involves placing a porcelain cover over the front surface of your tooth. This can also improve the appearance of a chipped, cracked, or misaligned tooth.
If you have healthy teeth, gums, and enamel, your dentist begins the process by removing some of your tooth enamel by using a sanding disc or fine diamond bur. This part of the procedure helps minimize imperfections in a tooth.
Next, your dentist will trim or shorten the length of longer teeth, as well as shape and smooth uneven teeth. This can improve your alignment and bite.
If you have a chipped tooth or gaps in between your teeth, your dentist can combine tooth reshaping with bonding.
Bonding uses a tooth-colored resin — similar in appearance to putty — to mold and further shape a tooth. When applied to teeth, the bonding material hardens and matches the appearance of your natural teeth.
Your dentist applies the bond, shapes it, and then allows it to harden. If you require bonding, this procedure can take an additional 30 minutes to an hour.