What You Need to Know About Cosmetic Contouring

If you’re not too keen on a certain aspect of your smile, you should have the opportunity to make a change. Our Hudsonville, MI, cosmetic dentists welcome all patients wanting a new look that still reflects who they are. That’s why we offer cosmetic contouring as an optional procedure inside our office.

Here how dental contouring can benefit you and improve how you view your smile.

Do I Qualify for Cosmetic Contouring?

Not everyone is suited for the cosmetic contouring procedure, hence why it is largely an elective form of treatment. However, if you do have small chips, cracks, pits, or bulges, in your teeth, our dentists can recommend contouring to you. We can also take care of teeth that are too long or pointy if you’re not satisfied with them.

It is important to understand that tooth contouring is limited by the individual tooth structure of the patient. By this we mean that any area that’s being shaped cannot be too thin and must have enough enamel present to change the tooth’s form.

When the enamel of a tooth turns out to be too slim or dramatic alterations are desired, our dentists will instead suggest other cosmetic solutions like porcelain veneers. We want you to feel proud of the results you see in the mirror so we will work with you to accomplish what you truly want for your smile.

With Cosmetic Contouring, It’s Possible To: 

1. Reshape One or Multiple Teeth

Some patients naturally have longer or pointier teeth which while perfectly fine, can lead to feelings of embarrassment. Fortunately, our dentists can use a dental drill or laser to reshape the tooth itself and get rid of excess enamel present.

One of the most common teeth that patients request to be contoured are the canines, or pointy upper “fangs”. While they are supposed to be pointed for tearing into food, some are sharper than desired. When this happens, a quick cosmetic contouring procedure is ideal to remove some of the enamel.

2. Easily Fix Chipped or Cracked Teeth

As long as the minor chip or crack in your tooth doesn’t affect your oral health, our dentists can use cosmetic contouring to buff out and smooth the surface. During the procedure, any fractures are seamlessly evened and angles are rounded to erase sharp curves.

It’s not uncommon for contouring to be paired alongside cosmetic bonding. The bonding procedure instead adds tooth-colored composite resin material to your tooth to help its volume or shape. The material is then molded and hardened with a special light for a cost-effective way to repair minorly damaged teeth.

3. Decrease the Likelihood of Decay or Gum Disease

Carefully grinding away excess tooth enamel can alter the way your teeth fit together. By changing the anatomy or overhangs of your original smile, our dentists can reduce how much tartar builds up in certain spots, thus decreasing the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease.

In general, you should have an easier time cleaning in between teeth post-contouring procedure. So, not only will your smile look how you want, but it will also stay cleaner assuming you brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and receive a teeth cleaning every six months.

Make Your Smile Into What You Want

If you’re in a position to pursue dental contouring and you’re interested, go for it! Our cosmetic dentists in Hudsonville, MI, can explain everything to you so you’re well informed going into the procedure. Call Hudsonville Dental today at (616) 209-4024 to schedule an appointment.