Your smile is an invaluable way to make a great first impression. Unfortunately, if you don’t feel confident about your smile, you may feel self-conscious when meeting someone for the first time or posing for a photo. Having a small chip on your tooth, or a rough patch irritating your tongue, is not a reason to become withdrawn or shun smiling in photos.
Here at North Pointe Dental Associates, home to some of the best dentists in Tampa, we meet patients with similar insecurities almost every day. The good news is that the fix is often less painful and quicker than you may think. If you have chipped or overlapping teeth, here is everything you need to know about enamel reshaping.
What is enamel reshaping?
Enamel reshaping is a cosmetic dentistry procedure used to address smaller imperfections. It can be used for chipped teeth, misshapen or overlapping teeth, and can even be used if you are not happy about a tooth’s size.
Enamel is the outer covering of the tooth that protects the softer part inside. Cosmetic contouring (also known as odontoplasty or teeth reshaping) removes some of your enamel to change the form of your tooth or teeth. This means it can only be used to address smaller imperfections without causing teeth sensitivity.
A good dentist will discuss all available options, so make sure to ask if cosmetic contouring is right for you.
How is the procedure done?
Using a drill or laser, the dentist will remove a portion of the enamel to make your teeth more uniform. After adjusting your teeth’ shape, length, or appearance to improve their look, the dentist will polish your teeth.
Because enamel is the outer shell of your teeth, there is no actual need for using numbing agents because it’s a painless procedure. Important benefits of cosmetic contouring are that it can be done in a single visit to your dentist, and it does not require a complicated recovery process.
However, it is worth noting that you might feel slight sensitivity a few hours after the procedure, just like some other cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening. It is a temporary sensitivity that can be treated with mild pain medication or even avoided altogether with some planning.
Should your teeth become sensitive after the procedure, be sure to brush your teeth gently using a soft-bristled brush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Also, eschew hot and cold food and drinks for 24 hours after having the procedure.
Is enamel reshaping for you?
The downsides of enamel reshaping are that it can be used only in certain cases and depends solely on how thick your enamel is. Therefore, it is best to discuss this option with your dentist, who can take an x-ray of your tooth and make sure that you are the right candidate for the procedure.
North Pointe Dental Associates is home to the best dentists in Tampa and we take great pride in our happy patients’ brilliant smiles. If you are wondering if enamel reshaping is right for you, our friendly personnel will gladly answer all your questions and discuss available options based on your unique needs. Call us today at (813) 961-1727 to schedule your next appointment!
