Have you ever wondered how a dentist gets a crown or filling to fit just right? Or what happens if your mouth is too small for your teeth? In some cases, tooth reshaping is the answer.
Tooth reshaping is when a dentist carefully removes a very small amount of enamel to change the size, shape or surface of a tooth. It may also be called enameloplasty, odontoplasty, tooth contouring or tooth shaving
Only a licensed dentist should ever reshape teeth! DIY “tooth shaving” trends like those you might see on social media will likely permanently damage your enamel. Unfortunately, enamel doesn’t grow back. Weakened enamel can lead to tooth sensitivity, increased risk for cavities and even harm to your tooth’s nerve.
The truth about reshaping teeth
The idea of “shaping” or “shaving” teeth might sound extreme. In skilled hands it’s a precise, sometimes necessary procedure that can improve both the look and function of your smile.
Dentists may recommend reshaping for several reasons:
Improved alignment: Slightly adjusting tooth size can help teeth fit together more comfortably, improving your bite.
Space for orthodontics: In some cases of crowding, removing even a sliver of enamel can make room for braces or aligners to work more effectively.
Fitting crowns or veneers: Teeth sometimes need gentle reshaping so these restorations fit securely and look natural.
Smoothing chips or uneven edges: Minor cosmetic flaws or chips on a tooth’s edge can be polished away to prevent small cuts on your cheeks and tongue or to boost self-confidence.
Because enamel doesn’t grow back, this procedure must be done with extreme care. Dentists use specialized tools to remove less than a fraction of a millimeter at a time. This preserves the strength of your tooth after it is reshaped.
When precision meets smile protection
When it’s done safely, tooth reshaping is a small change that can make a big difference. If you’re curious whether it’s right for you, discuss options with your in-network dentist and ask for a pre-treatment estimate to see what is covered by your benefits plan.
