Everyone deserves a beautiful and confident smile, and teeth reshaping is an easy way to make that happen! With just a few simple adjustments, teeth reshaping can address the problem of overlapping and uneven teeth without requiring extensive orthodontic work. Whether you have inherited irregularly spaced or oddly shaped teeth, or you have experienced dental trauma, this procedure can help to restore your smile. Read on to learn more about how teeth reshaping can help fix overlapping and uneven teeth!
What is teeth reshaping?
Teeth reshaping is a procedure that involves using special tools to change the shape, length and surface texture of your teeth. It can be used for cosmetic purposes or as part of an orthodontic treatment plan. The procedure is also known as tooth contouring, enamel shaping, dental sculpting and odonto-sculpture.
How is teeth reshaping performed?
Teeth reshaping is typically a quick and painless procedure. During the appointment, your dentist will carefully sculpt and contour your teeth with specialized instruments such as diamond burs, micro-abrasives or lasers. In most cases, no anesthetic is needed because the amount of tooth structure that needs to be removed is minimal. However, your dentist may recommend the use of a local anesthetic if you experience discomfort during the reshaping process. The procedure usually takes between 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how much sculpting is required.
How long does teeth reshaping take?
Teeth reshaping typically takes about one hour per tooth to complete. The amount of time necessary for the procedure may vary from patient to patient, depending on how much shaping needs to be done and what type of material is used. In some cases, multiple visits may be needed if more than one tooth is being reshaped.
Is teeth reshaping painful?
Teeth reshaping is typically a painless procedure. However, your dentist may use a local anesthetic to reduce any discomfort you might experience during the procedure. The shape of your teeth will be modified with a dental drill or laser, which can cause some sensitivity in patients who have not had the area numbed beforehand. Your dentist should provide adequate numbing to ensure your comfort during the reshaping process. After the procedure, some patients may experience minor tenderness for a few days.
How long do the results of teeth reshaping last?
The results of teeth reshaping are usually long lasting and can last for several years. However, in some cases, the shape may begin to wear away over time due to the natural process of chewing and grinding. In order to maintain the desired shape of your teeth it is important to practice good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day. Additionally, regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and cleanings will help to ensure that your teeth remain healthy and in good shape.
What are some alternatives to teeth reshaping?
The most popular alternatives to teeth reshaping for correcting minor dental imperfections are:
1. Dental Bonding: Dental bonding involves the application of composite resin material to a tooth in order to change its size, shape or color. The composite material is applied and sculpted directly onto the surface of the tooth and then hardened with a special light, creating a strong bond between the tooth and the composite material.
2. Veneers: Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or other materials that can be bonded to the front surface of teeth to change their size, shape, color or alignment. This procedure is often used for minor corrections such as closing gaps between teeth.
3. Orthodontic Treatment: Traditional orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign can be used to move the teeth into a more aesthetically pleasing position, either by closing gaps or straightening crooked teeth. This method is more involved than teeth reshaping and may take longer to achieve the desired results.
4. Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening is a common cosmetic procedure that can be used to brighten and enhance the color of stained teeth. This method can improve the appearance of your smile without making any changes to the shape or size of your teeth.
No matter which option you decide on, it’s important to consult with an experienced dentist before making any decisions. A good cosmetic dentist can help you determine which method is best for achieving the results you want and will assess your individual needs to ensure the most effective treatment plan.