Odontoplasty Can Affordably Provide a More Attractive Smile

What Is Enamel Shaping?

Enamel shaping, also referred to as dental contouring or odontoplasty, is a quick and conservative way to correct minor aesthetic problems, including misshaped, oversized, or uneven teeth. During enamel shaping, the doctor gently adjusts the outer layer of the tooth to create a more uniform smile. This conservative cosmetic dentistry treatment is simple and noninvasive and can provide results immediately. It is also often much more affordable than other cosmetic options, such as porcelain veneers and dental bonding.

Some of the benefits of enamel shaping include:

• Immediate results
• Noninvasive treatment
• One office visit
• Flawless and contoured smile
• Improved self-confidence
• Affordable procedure
• Better oral health
• No anesthesia

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Patients who are unhappy with the look and appearance of their smile due to the length, shape, and size of their teeth usually qualify for this procedure. Enamel shaping can help correct minor cosmetic imperfections, such as:

• Imbalanced front teeth
• Sharp-looking teeth
• Jagged edges or enamel imperfections
• Chipped teeth
• Overly long teeth
• Minor overcrowding
• Uneven teeth

Enamel shaping is often used after orthodontics to finalize and enhance results. It is not only beneficial aesthetically, but it can also improve oral health. When overcrowding is corrected and enamel smoothed, it reduces the risk of plaque buildup and cavities. If your teeth have discoloration, gaps, more severe chips, or thin enamel, a more substantial procedure may be substituted or used in combination with enamel shaping.

However, this procedure may not be suited for patients who suffer from dental sensitivity. During the initial consultation, the doctor will examine your teeth using x-rays and advanced imaging technologies to help determine if you are a good candidate. It is also important to keep in mind that enamel shaping cannot be reversed.

What to Expect during Your Appointment

At your appointment, the doctor will use a sanding disc to smooth out the enamel on your teeth. Tiny strips of sandpaper are typically used for imperfections in between teeth.

No follow-up appointment is necessary and you can return to normal activity immediately.

Since only a small amount of enamel is removed or adjusted, usually no more than one to two millimeters, anesthesia is not needed. Once the teeth are carefully reshaped and both you and the doctor are satisfied with the results, the doctor will complete your procedure by polishing your teeth. No follow-up appointment is necessary and you can return to normal activity immediately.

Achieve a Beautifully Contoured Smile

If you are looking for a simple and affordable solution to correcting minor tooth surface flaws, we encourage you to schedule a free consultation* to learn more about enamel shaping. Our skilled team of doctors is equipped to address your needs and meet, if not surpass, your expectations. To book an appointment, please contact our office today online or give us a call at (703) 385-0303.

* X-Rays and other imaging (CBCT-3D)  may incur a fee.