What Is Tooth Contouring?

June 12, 2018

Have you ever heard about contouring teeth or the term, dental contouring, and wondered what it meant? Maybe you have researched what to do about some of your unevenly shaped or sized teeth and found tooth contouring as a potential answer. Perhaps you and your dentist have discussed the procedure when talking about ways to update your smile’s appearance. Contouring a tooth is the opposite procedure of dental bonding though both involve altering the shape and size of a tooth. Cosmetic bonding is the act of adding to a tooth or teeth with a composite resin material. Contouring a tooth involves sculpting a small amount of enamel to create uniformity in the smile. 

A Conservative Approach

When you first hear the definition of dental contouring, it may sound like something that could be complicated, painful,  or uncomfortable. However, it is important to note that your dentist will go at contouring with a conservative approach, which means the smallest amount of tooth will be removed to reach your goals. If so much tooth is needed to be removed to affect the integrity of the tooth then contouring may not be the cosmetic treatment your smile needs. The procedure involves the strategic use of a polishing instrument that gently buffs away a minimal amount of enamel.

When Is It Right for Your Smile?

Dental contouring is a cosmetic treatment designed to remove small amounts of enamel for the sake of your smile’s appearance. So, if you have issues with your smile’s appearance that involve jagged edges, uneven lines, uneven shapes or sizes of teeth, then contouring may be a way for you to give a smooth, even appearance to your smile. Your dentist will be your best resource in deciding which treatment is right for you and your smile.

Dental Contouring Is a Cosmetic Treatment to Help Shape Your Smile

If you are looking to reshape some of your smile, dental contouring may be a good cosmetic treatment option for you. To schedule a consultation by calling E-Care Dentistry, PA in Olathe, KS, today at 913-210-1701. We also proudly serve patients from Overland Park, Lenexa, Leawood, Gardner, Spring Hill, Osawatomie, Edgerton, Shawnee, Johnson County, De Soto, Paola, Lawrence, and all surrounding communities.