Tooth reshaping, also called dental contouring, is a cosmetic treatment that removes small amounts of tooth enamel (the hard outer layer) to change the shape or length of one or more teeth. It can be a quick way to improve chipped, cracked, or overlapping teeth. At Primera Dental, we plan your contouring around your needs and goals.

What Is Tooth Reshaping?

Tooth reshaping, also called dental contouring, removes small amounts of tooth enamel (the tooth's outer coating) to change the shape, length, or surface of one or more teeth. The treatment is typically used to fix crooked, chipped, broken, or overlapping teeth. For minor problems, it can sometimes be used instead of braces. The changes are usually small.

Dental Contouring: How Does It Work?

Most patients feel little or no discomfort during tooth contouring. Before treatment, we take dental x-rays to check the size and position of each tooth's pulp (the soft inner part) and make sure there is enough bone between your teeth for support. Then our dentist gently removes a small amount of enamel with a laser or drill. Uneven edges are trimmed, teeth that are too long are shortened, and oddly shaped teeth are evened out to improve your bite and alignment. Finally, our dentist polishes your teeth for a natural shine.

Candidates for Tooth Contouring

• Minor tooth chipping around the borders

• Minor tooth crowding or misalignment

• A final touch-up after braces are removed

The Advantages of Tooth Contouring

Tooth contouring is a less invasive cosmetic treatment. It is also one of the quickest methods for reshaping your teeth. The following are some of the advantages of tooth contouring:

• It usually takes just one appointment.

• Treatment often takes less than an hour.

• Because there are no nerves in the enamel, most patients feel little or no discomfort.

• The changes are permanent.

Caring for Your Smile After Contouring

Tooth contouring removes only a small amount of enamel, so you usually don't need downtime or special aftercare. Continue brushing and flossing as usual, and let us know if you notice any rough edges or sensitivity so we can smooth them at a follow-up visit.

Insurance & Financing Options

Cosmetic tooth contouring is typically not covered by dental insurance or Medi-Cal since it's an elective cosmetic procedure. Primera Dental offers Cherry financing so you can spread the cost of treatment over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does tooth contouring hurt?

Usually not. There are no nerves in the enamel, so most patients feel little or no discomfort and don't need numbing (anesthesia).

How long does the procedure take?

Most tooth contouring can be completed in a single visit, often in less than an hour.

Am I a good candidate for tooth contouring?

Good candidates have minor chips, overlapping, or uneven teeth without significant decay or enamel loss. Our dentist will check your smile to see if it's a good option for you.

Can tooth contouring replace braces?

For minor misalignment, contouring can sometimes be used instead of braces, though more significant issues may still require orthodontic treatment.

Does Primera Dental serve patients outside Lynwood?

Yes, we welcome patients from Lynwood, South Gate, Compton, Paramount, Downey, Bell, Bell Gardens, Huntington Park, and Cudahy.