Enamel Shaping
Tooth shaping involves removing a small amount (generally 1 to 2 millimeters) of the enamel of the teeth. Tooth shaping can shorten long teeth, round off pointed teeth, and help create a pleasing smile that gently follows the contour of the lower lip. The procedure is quick and painless (the enamel has no nerves), and is usually completed in less than 20 minutes. Enamel shaping is a simple procedure performed by a dentist that quickly and easily improves the appearance of one’s smile.
Usually, enamel shaping can be completed in one appointment with no local anesthetic necessary. Patients that have minor correction issues such as uneven front teeth, minimally chipped teeth, or just an irritating rough spot may be great candidates for enamel shaping. Many times it is necessary to do enamel shaping in conjunction with enamel bonding. Enamel bonding is when the dentist uses a tooth colored material to add to any missing portion of the tooth. The bonding is placed and cured with a special light and then the tooth and bonding are contoured as needed. Bonding is necessary if the tooth has a large chip in it or there is a extensive spacing between the teeth.
