Tooth Contouring

Because our smiles are the way we greet the world, even tiny imperfections in our teeth can cause self-consciousness. If you have a front tooth with an uneven edge, a canine that is too long or pointed, a slight overlap between two teeth, or any other minor cosmetic concern, tooth contouring might be the solution you’re looking for.

During the contouring procedure, a small amount of tooth enamel is removed to refine and reshape an imperfect tooth’s appearance and help it fit in with the surrounding teeth. Precision tooth sculpting can eliminate or markedly reduce small flaws such as:

  • Irregular edges
  • Minor chips
  • Unequal tooth length
  • Too-sharp canines
  • Worn or flat edges
  • Slight overlaps between teeth
  • Minor bite problems caused by the teeth touching unevenly

Contouring is typically used to reshape the upper front and canine teeth because these teeth are the most visible. If you are interested in tooth contouring, talk to your dentist about which teeth might benefit, how your enamel can be reshaped, and the changes this will make in the overall appearance and health of your smile.

Once you’ve decided to enhance your smile with contouring, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums. You might need X-rays and/or dental treatment before contouring to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for the procedure.

The procedure itself generally takes about 30 minutes per tooth. Because only the enamel is involved, anesthesia may not be necessary. Using a laser or a specially equipped drill, your dentist will gently remove a very small amount of enamel to refine the shape of the tooth. After this subtle shaping, the tooth will be polished for a smooth, even finish.

You might feel some vibration during the shaping and polishing process, and temporary tooth sensitivity sometimes occurs afterward.

Besides improving the appearance of your teeth, contouring offers additional benefits:

  • Immediate results
  • Minimally invasive treatment
  • Little discomfort
  • Less expensive than other cosmetic options

Tooth contouring is not the answer for every patient. If you have thin enamel, more seriously damaged or irregularly shaped teeth, or require orthodontic treatment, your dentist can provide you with other options to create a beautiful, healthy smile.

But when minor cosmetic flaws make you feel self-conscious about your smile, skilled aesthetic contouring might be exactly what you need. If tiny imperfections in your teeth are having an outsized impact on your confidence, talk to your dentist about tooth contouring.

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Tuesday:

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Testimonials

See What Patients Say About Us

  • "A warm and welcoming dental practice with a top notch team. I live in another city now and genuinely miss visiting Madrona Family Dental because of my fantastic conversations with Kristen!"
    - Kelly Stevens
  • "As someone who has always hated going to the dentist, I can say Dr. Tarr and his hygienists are the best out there. I hated getting my teeth cleaned because it was always painful, but the dental hygienists at the office are so good I am never in pain and it’s over before I know it."
    -Meagan W.
  • "I have some very specific needs for dentistry that have caused me tremendous issues in the past, but Dr Tarr and his amazing staff are by far the best dental experience I've ever had in every way."
    - Anonymous
  • "Dr. Loren Tarr and his entire staff are the most courteous and professional team, front office and back, I have ever encountered. The dental care provided by Dr. Tarr and his hygienists is second to none. My teeth and gums are healthier than before I started coming here (thanks to their encouragement to WaterPik). There was a mistake made by a lab once when I was getting a decades-old crown replaced; Dr. Tarr made sure to set everything right. (And the crown is amazing! It feels like a real tooth.) Madrona Family Dental gets my highest recommendation."
    - Laura P.