Tooth reshaping, also known as dental contouring, involves subtle changes to imperfections in your smile. While your braces probably addressed any crooked or overlapping teeth, tooth reshaping can help fix those edges or surfaces that are misshapen, chipped, or extra-pointy. This technique removes small amounts of enamel to change the shape, length, or surface of one or more teeth. The procedure does not require any healing time or numbing agents and usually takes about 30 minutes, including these four steps:
Tooth reshaping is often combined with a process called bonding to achieve the best results. Bonding can fill in chips or gaps, add shape, and improve the color of teeth. The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour and includes these steps:
Hopefully, you practiced proper oral hygiene to keep your teeth from staining during braces. Still, you might wish for a brighter smile once your orthodontic treatment has finished. Explore your tooth whitening options to get the best results:
Maintaining your beautiful new smile after braces also involves following your orthodontist's instructions. Newly straightened teeth often require a retainer to stabilize. Retainers are custom-made appliances constructed of plastic or metal wire to keep your teeth in place. These retainers might be removable or permanently fixed to the back of teeth. Often, you need to wear your retainer full-time for up to six months to ensure your teeth remain straight for years to come.
In addition to wearing your retainer, maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. Removing your braces makes it easier to brush all the surfaces of your teeth twice a day for two minutes and clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental device. Also, don't forget regular visits to the dental office to check on your oral health!
Life with braces required months of dedication on your journey to a beautiful smile. Work with your orthodontist or dental professional to determine which additional procedures will help achieve the smile you deserve and the confidence that comes along with it.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine