What is Tooth Recontouring?
Tooth Recontouring, or the reshaping of teeth, is a treatment involving the removal of small amounts of tooth enamel that is often used in order to alter the length, shape, and overall visual appearance of the teeth, creating more of a balance within the look of a smile or assisting in realignment to even out a bite. Recontouring is one of the most quick and painless procedures within the field of cosmetic dentistry, making it a great choice for the many of us who are looking to change the aesthetics of our smiles. However, does this mean it’s the best choice for you?
Tooth Reshaping is a great solution for those looking to fix the minor imperfections found upon their teeth, such as uneven enamel, small chips, or irregular tooth shape caused by an individual having either uneven or too many teeth. The procedure can also be used to assist in adjusting the length of canines, meaning there is potential for the method to be used in order to correct a Gummy Smile.
While Tooth Recontouring may provide many benefits for those looking to change the appearance of their teeth, the method can also have a positive impact on your overall dental hygiene, removing the overlaps and crevices found between teeth in which harmful substances such as tartar and plaque are known to build up.
Unfortunately, this is a procedure not commonly recommended to those dealing with substantial damage, such as deep fracturing, to the surface of their teeth as the treatment method would not prove as effective in comparison to its use on smaller fixes. While Recontouring can be utilised alongside the use of other treatments such as Veneers, it is not to be perceived as a replacement for these cosmetic dentistry solutions.
Before deciding upon the use of Tooth Recontouring treatment to fix any surface damage, all patients must undergo an initial exam as to determine whether they are an appropriate candidate for the reshaping method. An X-Ray will be taken as to assess the size and location of the nerves and blood vessels, otherwise referred to as the pulp, found within the tooth, – if the layer of enamel is too thin or the pulp resides too close to the surface, Tooth Reshaping may not be a possibility; leaving the other options, like veneers, to be discussed.
During the appointment, small pieces of enamel are removed through the use of a fine diamond bur or sanding disc as to help you achieve your ideal tooth shape; teeth are then polished to complete the procedure. This cosmetic dentistry treatment is considered, for the most part, a safe one, making it a great option for anyone looking to undergo minor alterations to the overall look of their teeth. What’s more, no follow-up treatment or after care is needed on procedures not combined with other methods!
However, while not considered too drastic, there is some level of risk that accompanies Tooth Recontouring and should be taken into consideration; this involves enamel thickness. If this layer of the tooth becomes too thin due to Recontouring and thus exposes the dentin layer, an individual may begin to suffer from tooth sensitivity. Enamel is also irreplaceable, meaning Recontouring should be considered carefully.
To conclude, Tooth Recontouring is a great method to opt for when aiming to correct minor imperfections on the surface of the tooth and, due to its lack of adverse effects, is a treatment suitable for the majority of people. If this is a solution that you find yourself interested in, visit our Tooth Recontouring page to discover what Ascent Dental Care Malvern can do to help you.