Tooth Contouring
Tooth contouring, also known as reshaping, is an instant cosmetic treatment for correcting such problems as crookedness, cracks, chips and overlaps in the teeth with subtle reshaping techniques. This can often be achieved in only one or two visits to the dentist, and in some cases tooth contouring can even eliminate the need for braces or aligners.
Who can benefit from tooth contouring?
People suffering from imperfections in the teeth, including abnormal shaping, chips, fractures and holes, or problems with overlapping or overcrowding can all benefit from contouring. Small irregularities are catered for to perfection, as contouring is uniquely designed to take care of problems spanning mere millimetres. Many procedures change the shape, position or length of certain teeth by tiny fractions. People seeking more major corrections should talk to their cosmetic dentist about other treatments or a combination of methods including contouring, as overuse of the reshaping process can potentially weaken the teeth. It is vital that the teeth to be altered are healthy.
How is contouring achieved?
Firstly the dentist uses x-rays to closely examine the teeth and make sure that sufficient bone is present between the teeth. Computer imaging may be used to show you the projected outcome. When the procedure begins the dentist will precisely mark the teeth to guide them with the contouring. The imperfect teeth are then safely and gradually sculpted using tools like a laser or sanding drill to slowly remove enamel from the tooth surface until the desired result is achieved. The sides of the treated teeth are shaped with abrasive strips, and the process is finished with smoothing and polishing. You can usually expect full treatment within 3 visits.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to treating small tooth inconsistencies it is hard to argue against tooth contouring. Edges can be rounded or squared with precision and care, while cracks, pits and grooves can be smoothed to provide symmetry and a more attractive smile. The procedure is conservative, safe, painless and relatively inexpensive, especially considering the results. It is also very quick, and compares favourably in this regard to multiple other treatments.
However the more tooth enamel that is removed, the weaker the teeth can become. Overreliance on contouring can therefore be damaging, though a good cosmetic dentist should advise you on this matter. Also the problems may return if they were the result of certain personal habits, e.g. teeth being worn down by excessive grinding. If such grinding persists, the contouring will not help for long.
How much does tooth contouring cost?
In the field of cosmetic dentistry, tooth contouring is an economical solution. Factors such as geographical location, the specific cosmetic dentist and the amount of reshaping will all impact on the price, but generally the cost per tooth ranges from $50 to $350. Most dental insurance plans will only cover such a procedure if an accident lead to the tooth imperfections.