Tooth contouring involves reshaping the tooth enamel surface of the teeth that appear in the smile. This cosmetic dental procedure can only be done on healthy teeth and both the patient and dentist should be certain that the each tooth involved is healthy by taking x-rays and performing a detailed examination before anything is done. It's foolish to think that color is the only thing that matters. Part of a beautiful smile is having pleasant and flowing shapes that are in proportion to each other.

          Tooth contouring is done in the dental office, usually takes one appointment which is less than a hour and can often be done without the patient having to be stuck with any needles. It's almost always a very comfortable procedure. Since enamel is very hard, diamond coated instruments are used to do the reshaping. Many cosmetic dentists also offer gum contouring services and can combine the use of both procedures to improve the patient's smile.

          Tooth contouring can replace the youthful natural embrasures lost from the wear in a patient with a badly worn and flat dentition. Many patients have one or two teeth that are too long and out of proportion which make their smiles look fangy. They can be shortened and reshaped to look much better. Teeth that overlap can have the overlapping portion removed or reduced to allow more light onto their surfaces so the patient's smile can be seen. Peforming this procedure in conjunction with tooth whitening can significantly improve the appearance of someone's smile.

          Tooth contouring can be combined with gum contouring, crown lengthening, tooth whitening and several other cosmetic dental procedures to achieve the best possible results for a given patient. It's one of the many tools that a cosmetic dentist has to design and create a gorgeous smile. Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky is an Atlanta cosmetic dentist who loves helping his patients smile and laugh. If you would like a Free cosmetic consultation with Dr. P, call 404-874-7428 for your appointment. It's the first step in taking great care of yourself.