Enamel is the outer surface that covers your tooth. Its main purpose is to protect the parts of the tooth that lie underneath so it is very tough. Tooth enamel also serves an aesthetic value as its appearance will affect the beauty of your smile. Staining, chipping, discoloration and rough texture, are some of the problems that can affect your enamel and interfere with your smile.
Besides the commonly known procedures used in cosmetic dentistry, such as dental crowns, implants and veneers, you can also improve your smile through a cosmetic procedure called enamel shaping.
The procedure is quite simple as it only involves restructuring the outer surface of the affected tooth. The result is usually a smooth finish and uniform appearance. This quick process involves minimal to no discomfort and guarantees immediate results. The procedure is quite inexpensive.
Are you suitable for enamel shaping?
Enamel shaping is particularly recommended if you have minor dental flaws that can be corrected without having to undergo extensive cosmetic procedures. Such flaws include:
- Small chips.
- Nagging problems like a rough spot on your tooth that scratches your tongue or the sides of your mouth
- Teeth that have a rough surface or irregular texture,
- Unevenness in your front teeth,
- Very long teeth,
- Dramatically pointy canines,
- An unbalanced smile resulting from unevenly shaped teeth
- Overcrowded teeth,
- Reshaping a matching tooth that’s noticeably different in size from its counterpart.
Procedure involved in enamel shaping
You only need a single appointment for enamel shaping, unless there are other underlying issues. Because the procedure involves removing a very small portion of the surface of your tooth, you will not suffer from any pain and thus anesthesia might not be necessary.
The process is as simple as getting on and off the dentist’s chair. After your appointment, you can go on with your daily activities without fear of sensitivity or pain.
How enamel shaping is done
Enamel shaping is also referred to as re-contouring. The tools used for polishing your teeth during cleaning are the same ones used for shaping. A very tiny part of the surface is removed using these tools.
Bonding is the direct opposite of enamel shaping. With bonding, resin or porcelain is added to the surface of your teeth to fill up holes, cover gaps or elongate teeth.
Other procedures used in combination
Based on your dentist’s diagnosis, he/she might need to combine enamel shaping with other dental procedures in order to achieve the best results. Overcrowded teeth for instance, might need to be rectified using orthodontic procedures.
As the results of enamel shaping are permanent, you should discuss all your options with your dentist to ensure you are getting the best procedure that will give you a great smile for longer.
Care after enamel reshaping
As part of your enamel will be taken out, you will need to exercise great care for your teeth through brushing, flossing and regular checkups.