Tooth reshaping is a convenient and cost effective way to improve a smile. Reshaping and sculpting can fix a chipped, uneven or poorly aligned smile. Many times when reshaping or sculpting teeth, the dentist will combine it with a treatment called bonding. The front teeth are the best candidates for reshaping and bonding.
To reshape or contour a tooth, the dentist will use a laser or drill to gently remove small amounts of enamel. Before this, x-rays will be taken to analyze the area of interest and the amount of pulp in that location. The dentist will then trim or alter the desired areas to even the alignment of the teeth. To finish, the teeth are smoothed and polished.
Teeth reshaping and sculpting is a painless procedure, with generally no discomfort. No anesthesia is required.
Teeth reshaping typically takes one 30-minute appointment, depending on the amount of work needed, the time of the procedure may vary.
Reshaping and contouring can cost anywhere between $50 and $300 per tooth depending on the amount and complexity of work that needs to be done in order to achieve the desired appearance.
Reshaped and sculpted teeth require good aftercare to retain their appearance. Teeth that have been bonded are at the most risk of chipping and staining. Avoiding chewing fingernails, biting on pens, pencils, ice, or using your teeth as tools other than for eating and chewing.
There is more to a beautiful smile than white teeth. Extra gum tissue can cause your teeth to look short, stubby, and misshapen. In this case, gum contouring and reshaping may help in achieving a picture-perfect smile.
Using a soft tissue laser or other cutting tools, a periodontist or dentist removes gum tissue to expose more tooth enamel and create the desired look of a smile. Gum contouring and re-shaping only requires a local anesthetic during the procedure, and recovery pain can be managed with over-the-counter medicine. This type of procedure can usually be done during one visit to the dentist.
There are various reasons to contour or reshape the gums. These reasons range from cosmetic and aesthetic purposes to medical improvements in overall oral health. Periodontal disease, gingival infections, and tooth decay can all be caused by gum inconsistencies.
Gum contouring and reshaping can be done at any of our practices. This procedure is performed by a qualified dentist or periodontist. A mild anesthetic will be administered to the area of gum that will be reshaped. A soft tissue laser will be used to contour and seal the tissue to create the desired shape of the gums. The dentist can also use the laser to close hollows that can trap bad bacteria and prevent future infections.
Gum contouring can cost between $500 and $10,000 dollars depending on the amount of work and type of procedure. Most dental insurance companies will cover at least a portion of the cost if the procedure is done for medical reasons. Contact the dental office for more information on your coverage.
The doctor will administer a local anesthetic before the procedure, during which you should not feel any pain. Once you are home you may experience mild pain, this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, like Tylenol or Advil (do not take Aspirin).
If you notice excessive swelling, bleeding or any have concerns following your procedure, contact your dental provider and make an appointment as soon as possible.
