The standard of beauty includes a bright shining smile and everyone desires to have one. Unfortunately, misshapen teeth can mar the beauty of your smile and in some cases can impact an individual’s overall oral health and general wellbeing. Fortunately, there are various solutions to the problem. Porcelain veneers can be used to mask misshapen teeth. Cosmetic crowns can also be used and cosmeticcontouring is another option.
What is Cosmetic Contouring?
As the name implies, cosmetic contouring is reshaping a misshapen tooth. It is performed to eliminate minor imperfections in teeth. The dentist may use a drill or lasers to remove small portions of the outer shell of the tooth. This procedure is used to even out teeth that may be of varying lengths. It can also be used in some instances where teeth overlap. Cosmetic contouring is also used to change the shape or surface of a tooth.
Is the Procedure Painful?
The only part of the tooth that is affected in cosmetic contouring is the enamel which is the hard, outside shell of the tooth. X-rays may be required to determine the thickness of the enamel to ensure that the procedure can be performed. Under normal circumstance anesthesia is not needed since there are no nerves located in the enamel. Most patients undergoing cosmetic contouring feel no discomfort at all.
Occasionally bonding is used in conjunction with contouring the enamel. This also does not require the use of an anesthetic. Bonding is used to make a tooth longer and to fill in tiny gaps or imperfections in a tooth.
Cosmetic Contouring Can Change Your Smile
When your smile is not as appealing as it could be due to misshapen teeth, cosmetic contouring may be the least expensive route to changing it for the better. Before you spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on more expensive procedures such as porcelain veneers or dental caps, have a conversation with your dentist. He or she will examine the tooth or teeth in question and make a determination as to whether or not you are a good candidate for cosmetic contouring.
The other cosmetic dentistry procedures are not only more expensive, they are time consuming. Additionally they usually call for more alteration of the tooth surface. While these procedures may be necessary to help you achieve your best smile, cosmetic contouring should be the first option you seriously consider.
The dentists at Waller Dental can help you make the decision for a more appealing smile through cosmetic contouring. Contact us today for and appointment. We will examine your teeth and let you know if a little reshaping can get your smile looking great.