Tooth Reshaping in Murphy, TX
Tooth Reshaping provided by Jason Larsen, DDS
and Jean Larsen, DDS
in Murphy, TX at Parkside Dental
 Tooth reshaping, also called dental contouring, odontoplasty, or enameloplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes a small amount of enamel to change selected minor irregularities in tooth shape or edge contour.
At Parkside Dental, Dr. Jason Larsen and Dr. Jean Larsen can evaluate whether reshaping is appropriate for your tooth or whether another cosmetic dentistry option would better address the concern.
What Can Tooth Reshaping Address?
Tooth reshaping is intended for relatively small changes to the enamel.
It may be considered for:| • |
Minor uneven tooth edges
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Small points or irregularities in tooth shape
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Very small differences in the length or contour of selected teeth
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Minor rough or chipped enamel edges when sufficient healthy structure remains |
Tooth reshaping does not move teeth and is not a substitute for orthodontic treatment when significant crowding, rotation, spacing, or bite correction is needed.
Who Is a Candidate for Tooth Reshaping?
Candidates need enough healthy enamel for the planned contouring to be performed conservatively.
Before treatment, our dentist will evaluate the tooth for decay, cracks, significant structural damage, gum problems, bite forces, or other conditions that may make reshaping inappropriate.
If the cosmetic change requires adding material rather than removing a small amount of enamel, dental bonding may be considered instead.
The Tooth Reshaping Process
Examination
Treatment begins with an examination of the tooth and surrounding bite. Our dentist will determine whether the concern can be addressed by conservatively reshaping enamel without compromising the tooth.
Treatment Planning
The amount and location of enamel that may be adjusted are determined before the contouring begins.
The goal is to make a small, controlled change rather than significantly reduce the size or structure of the tooth.
Tooth Contouring
When reshaping is appropriate, our dentist uses suitable dental instruments to conservatively smooth or alter the planned area of enamel.
The tooth is then finished and polished.
Benefits of Tooth Reshaping
For appropriate minor cosmetic concerns, tooth reshaping may offer several advantages:| • |
Conservative treatment limited to selected areas of enamel
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No laboratory restoration is required
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Can smooth minor irregularities or uneven visible edges
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May be combined with dental bonding when a treatment plan requires both removing and adding small amounts of tooth structure |
Limitations and Risks of Tooth Reshaping
Enamel does not grow back after it is removed. Tooth reshaping must therefore be conservative and limited to teeth with enough healthy structure for the planned adjustment.
Removing too much enamel can contribute to sensitivity or weaken a tooth. This is why tooth reshaping should be performed only after a dentist evaluates the tooth and determines that the proposed change is appropriate.
Patients with larger chips, substantial tooth damage, significant misalignment, or extensive shape concerns may require another treatment instead.
Tooth Reshaping vs Dental Bonding and Veneers
Several cosmetic treatments can address tooth-shape concerns in different ways.
Dental bonding adds tooth-colored composite material and may be useful when a tooth needs material added to change its contour.
Dental veneers cover the front surface of selected teeth and may be considered when broader changes to shape, color, size, or visible tooth appearance are needed.
Tooth reshaping removes only a small amount of enamel and is intended for more limited contour changes.
Visit our Cosmetic Dentistry in Murphy, TX page to compare these options.
Taking Care of Reshaped Teeth
Continue your normal oral hygiene routine by brushing, cleaning between your teeth, and attending regular dental examinations and professional cleanings.
If you notice persistent sensitivity, roughness, damage, or another unexpected change after treatment, contact our office for an evaluation.
FAQs
What is tooth reshaping?
Tooth reshaping, also called dental contouring, odontoplasty, or enameloplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that conservatively removes a small amount of enamel to adjust selected minor irregularities in tooth shape or edge contour.
Who is a good candidate for tooth reshaping?
A candidate generally needs a minor contour concern and enough healthy enamel for the planned change to be made conservatively. Teeth with significant decay, damage, structural weakness, or larger alignment problems may require another treatment.
Does tooth reshaping move crooked teeth?
No. Tooth reshaping changes small areas of tooth contour but does not move the position of the tooth. Significant crowding, rotation, spacing, or bite concerns may require orthodontic treatment such as clear aligners.
Is tooth reshaping permanent?
Yes. Enamel that is removed during tooth reshaping does not grow back, which is why the procedure must be carefully planned and limited to an appropriate amount of healthy enamel.
What is the difference between reshaping and bonding?
Tooth reshaping removes a small amount of enamel to change contour, while dental bonding adds tooth-colored composite resin. Depending on the cosmetic concern, one or both approaches may be considered.
Schedule a Tooth Reshaping Consultation
If you have a minor tooth-shape or edge concern and want to learn whether dental contouring is appropriate, call Parkside Dental at (972) 442-7550 to schedule an appointment. |
