How to Achieve a More Aesthetic Smile: Contouring and Reshaping Teeth

Do you feel like your smile is not as aesthetically pleasing as you would like it to be? Are you self-conscious about your teeth because they are not quite symmetrical or the shape is off? If so, you are not alone. Many people feel this way, and there is a solution: contouring and reshaping teeth. In this blog post, we will discuss what contouring and reshaping teeth entails, the benefits of doing it, and how Stonebrook Family Dental and Dr. Kevin Varley are here to help with cosmetic contouring, reshaping, bonding and veneers.

What is Contouring and Reshaping Teeth?

Cosmetic contouring is a simple procedure that removes some of your enamel to change the form of your tooth or teeth. The goal of cosmetic contouring is to alter your teeth’ shape, length, or appearance to improve your look. Contouring and reshaping is a great option for people who have teeth that are not quite symmetrical or who want to change the shape of their teeth.

The Procedure

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.

What is Bonding?

Bonding is a fast and affordable way to improve the appearance of your teeth. A resin material is applied to the tooth and then cured with a special light. The resin is matched to the color of your teeth so it will blend in and look natural. Bonding is best for people who  have minor cosmetic problems with their teeth, such as chips, cracks, and slight misalignment.

What are Veneers?

Veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are bonded to the front of teeth. They can be used to cover discolored teeth, to correct crooked teeth, or to make teeth look longer or shorter. Veneers are best for people who  have healthy, damage-free teeth and gums and want a quick, painless way to improve their smile.

What are the Benefits?

There are many benefits to contouring and reshaping teeth. Some of the most common include improved:

• Aesthetics: Teeth can be reshaped to make them more symmetrical and/or to correct alignment issues.
• Bite: Contouring and reshaping teeth can help to correct bite problems, such as overbite or underbite.
• Dental health: Teeth that are not properly aligned can be more difficult to clean and are more prone to decay and gum disease. Aligning teeth can help improve oral hygiene and reduce the risk of dental problems.
• Confidence: A beautiful, symmetrical smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem.

Who is a Candidate?

Almost anyone who is unhappy with the appearance of their teeth can be a candidate for contouring and reshaping. However, it is important to note that not everyone is a candidate for laser treatment, so those with very delicate teeth may need to opt for traditional shaving instead.

Those with Decay and Gum Disease 

If you have decay or gum disease, your dentist will need to treat these issues before performing any cosmetic procedures. This is because contouring and reshaping can increase the risk of dental problems if they are not treated first. Contouring and reshaping only changes the appearance of your smile, but it cannot  fix any underlying dental problems. Signs of decay and gum disease include:

• Red, swollen, and bleeding gums
• Bad breath that doesn’t go away
• Receding gums
• Loose teeth
• Teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of contouring and reshaping teeth will vary depending on the individual’s needs and the type of procedure that is done. However, it is typically a relatively affordable cosmetic dental procedure.

Why Choose Cosmetic Dentistry?

There are many reasons to choose cosmetic dentistry. Some of the most common reasons include that you:

• Are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth
• Have dental problems that you want to correct
• Want a quick and painless way to improve your smile
• Are looking for a more affordable option than veneers or braces
• Feel self-conscious about your teeth and want to boost your confidence

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and would like to explore your options for improving them, please contact our office today. We would be happy to assess your needs and help you find the best

Make an Appointment with Stonebrook Family Dental

If you are considering contouring and reshaping your teeth, Stonebrook Family Dental and Dr. Kevin Varley are here to help. We offer a variety of cosmetic dental procedures, including tooth reshaping and contouring, cosmetic bonding, and veneers, to help you achieve the beautiful smile you have always wanted. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!