WHAT IS TEETH RESHAPING?

Teeth reshaping is a technique used in cosmetic dentistry, often referred to as bonding or dental contouring, to alter the appearance of uneven, chipped or misaligned teeth. This technique is a cost-effective option to restore the appearance of teeth. Dental contouring procedures applied to the front teeth are the most common.

Dr. Novak and the dental professionals at Richmond Dental, located near you in the 05477 area of Richmond, Vermont, want to educate its patients, new and current, on the method of teeth reshaping.

Reshaping of Teeth

A tooth is reshaped by removing small amount of enamel to change the shape, length or surface. In certain circumstances, this method can be used as an alternative to braces to reshape overlapping teeth.

The reshaping of teeth with subtle changes with result in a healthy smile with no discomfort to the patient.

Candidates for Teeth Reshaping

If you have healthy teeth, but your teeth are chipped, pitted or appear crowded, then this procedure should be discussed with a cosmetic dentist.

How Is This Done?

The first step is x-rays to evaluate the size and location of the pulp, the bony tissue under the enamel. The enamel is removed with a laser or a drill. The affected areas are altered and then smoothed and polished. Generally, this procedure takes less than 1 hour.

The removal of enamel may cause some sensitivity. In this case, the dentist will numb the area.

Why is Bonding Part of the Procedure?

Bonding, a putty-like resin, is used to fill any gaps and create the reshape. The resin is applied to the smoothed surface and hardened by a light.

The resin can be used to improve the color of teeth, or it can be tinted to match the color of the natural teeth.

Removing enamel from a tooth weakens it, and dental veneers may be necessary to strengthen a tooth after its reshaping.

How Do I Care for My Teeth Post Treatment?

Although teeth reshaping is the most cost effective and convenient of the cosmetic procedures, the resin is high maintenance. The care of bonded teeth will require certain changes to your lifestyle.

Teeth that are bonded have the highest risk of staining and chipping. Therefore, the biting of fingernails, chewing on pens and eating of hard foods should be avoided. Red wine, smoking and drinking coffee and tea will stain the resin.

It will be necessary to brush your teeth at least twice per day with a toothpaste containing whitening ingredients.

When compared to braces and other orthodontic work, teeth reshaping is the least time consuming, but the results and the maintenance must be considered.

If you feel you are a good candidate for teeth reshaping and live or work in or near the 05477 area code of Vermont, then please contact Richmond Dental for a consultation.

The dental professionals at Richmond Dental are trusted and highly recommended in the areas of cosmetic, restorative and general dentistry.