Tooth Shaping and Sculpting

Tooth reshaping or contouring

Tooth reshaping is a convenient and cost effective way to improve a smile. Reshaping and sculpting can fix a chipped, uneven or poorly aligned smile. Many times when reshaping or sculpting teeth, the dentist will combine it with a treatment called bonding. The front teeth are the best candidates for reshaping and bonding.

What are the benefits of tooth shaping and sculpting?

Cost-effective
Improved appearance of the smile — requires no anesthesia
Painless, safe and effective
Improved confidence
Lowers your risk of tooth decay

How is tooth reshaping done?

To reshape or contour a tooth, the dentist will use a laser or drill to gently remove small amounts of enamel. Before this, x-rays will be taken to analyze the area of interest and the amount of pulp in that location. The dentist will then trim or alter the desired areas to even the alignment of the teeth. To finish, the teeth are smoothed and polished.

Does tooth reshaping and sculpting hurt?

Teeth reshaping and sculpting is a painless procedure, with generally no discomfort. No anesthesia is required.

How long does teeth reshaping and sculpting take?

Teeth reshaping typically takes one 30-minute appointment, depending on the amount of work needed, the time of the procedure may vary.

How much does teeth reshaping and sculpting cost?

Reshaping and contouring can cost anywhere between $50 and $300 per tooth depending on the amount and complexity of work that needs to be done in order to achieve the desired appearance.

Aftercare of a reshaped and sculpted tooth

Reshaped and sculpted teeth require good aftercare to retain their appearance. Teeth that have been bonded are at the most risk of chipping and staining. Avoiding chewing fingernails, biting on pens, pencils, ice, or using your teeth as tools other than for eating and chewing.

Gum contouring and reshaping

There is more to a beautiful smile than white teeth. Extra gum tissue can cause your teeth to look short, stubby, and misshapen. In this case, gum contouring and reshaping may help in achieving a picture-perfect smile.

How is gum reshaping done?

Using a soft tissue laser or other cutting tools, a periodontist or dentist removes gum tissue to expose more tooth enamel and create the desired look of a smile. Gum contouring and re-shaping only requires a local anesthetic during the procedure, and recovery pain can be managed with over-the-counter medicine. This type of procedure can usually be done during one visit to the dentist.

What is gum contouring and is it necessary?

There are various reasons to contour or reshape the gums. These reasons range from cosmetic and aesthetic purposes to medical improvements in overall oral health. Periodontal disease, gingival infections, and tooth decay can all be caused by gum inconsistencies.

What are the benefits to gum shaping and sculpting teeth?

Remove extra tissue
Even gum lining
Helps fight tooth decay and increases the overall health of your mouth
Contouring lasts forever
An improved smile, which can boost confidence, and mood

How is gum reshaping done?

Gum contouring and reshaping can be done at any of our practices. This procedure is performed by a qualified dentist or periodontist. A mild anesthetic will be administered to the area of gum that will be reshaped. A soft tissue laser will be used to contour and seal the tissue to create the desired shape of the gums. The dentist can also use the laser to close hollows that can trap bad bacteria and prevent future infections.

How much does reshaping your gums cost?

Gum contouring can cost between $500 and $10,000 dollars depending on the amount of work and type of procedure. Most dental insurance companies will cover at least a portion of the cost if the procedure is done for medical reasons. Contact the dental office for more information on your coverage.

Does it hurt to have your gums contoured?

The doctor will administer a local anesthetic before the procedure, during which you should not feel any pain. Once you are home you may experience mild pain, this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, like Tylenol or Advil (do not take Aspirin).

Recovery and aftercare of reshaped and contoured gums

Follow the below steps for an optimal recovery:

After your dental procedure, limit your activities and take time to rest.
Over-the-counter pain reliever, Tylenol or Advil is recommended. Do not take Aspirin, it can cause bleeding. Experiencing soreness after a gum contouring and reshaping procedure is normal, however, gums usually heal very quickly.
Eat soft, cool foods, such as eggs, pasta, yogurt, cottage cheese, mashed banana, and ice cream during the first few days following the procedure. Avoid spicy, hot, foods or anything containing seeds.
Follow the dentist's instructions when it comes to brushing and flossing during the first few days following the procedure.

If you notice excessive swelling, bleeding or any have concerns following your procedure, contact your dental provider and make an appointment as soon as possible.