Aside from teeth whitening, there are many other ways a cosmetic dentist can improve your smile. If you have teeth that don't quite fit right or that don't complement your smile, you may be a good candidate for a procedure known as enameloplasty (tooth reshaping). This procedure involves shaving and contouring tooth enamel to create a better overall appearance. Not sure if enameloplasty is right for you? Here are the answers to the most common questions you may have about enameloplasty.

What Exactly is Enameloplasty?

Enameloplasty is a cosmetic dental procedure in which small amounts of your tooth enamel or removed in order to change the shape, length or surface of a tooth. The procedure is also known as reshaping, slenderizing and dental contouring. Before the procedure, your dentist will examine your teeth and take x-rays to determine if the procedure is an appropriate treatment for your concerns.

What Does the Procedure Consist of?

Reshaping is done by shaving off small amounts of enamel (outer covering of teeth). Once the tooth is reshaped, teeth are smoothed and polished to their natural looking appearance. This process is often combined with other cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as bonding or the placement of veneers.

What are the Benefits of Enameloplasty?

One of the best benefits of enameloplasty is that the treatment restores the misshaped tooth into proper alignment with your other teeth, which helps to improve the health of your teeth and improves the tooth structure and bite. Proper alignment of teeth is essential for allowing the facial muscles to have a proportionate appearance, improving chewing and proper speech pronunciation. Other benefits include:

• Reduces the risk of plaque deposits on unevenly worn teeth
• Reduces a variety of dental health issues, such as teeth grinding and TMJ disorders
• May prevent the need for braces or other orthodontic treatments
• Improves self confidence
• Allows for easier cleaning of teeth, which may reduce the likelihood of gum disease

Who can Benefit from Enameloplasty?

Enameloplasty is beneficial for teeth that are chipped, worn, injured or misshaped. For instance, teeth grinding can cause the enamel on teeth to wear or become injured. Enameloplasty can help to repair the damages and it prevents teeth grinding, so teeth are protected against additional damage. Teeth that are pointed can also be reshaped, which can prevent the risk of decay and improve dental appearance.

Your cosmetic dentist may recommend enameloplasty if you have a tooth that is slightly crooked, too pointy or that sticks out on one side more than that the other. The procedure is completely safe and relatively painless, but it is important to keep in mind that enameloplasty isn't typically appropriate for those with unhealthy gums or decaying teeth. In some situations, your dentist may incorporate enameloplasty in with other dental procedures, such as crown lengthening or veneers.