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It should be noted that this procedure is classified as either part of prosthodontics (artificial teeth) or orthodontics (braces), or both.
The American Dental Association, which is, without doubt, the leading authority in dentistry in the Western Hemisphere, does not recognise cosmetic dentistry as a formal speciality area of dentistry. However, there are still dentists that promote themselves as cosmetic dentists, and claim to be experts in this procedure, although there is no such speciality as cosmetic dentistry.
The reshaping of the tooth’s enamel can lead to an improvement of the overall appearance of a smile, correcting the flaws that catch one’s eye, such as a tooth that is longer than the others, or an obvious overlapping or rotation of the teeth due to crowding (presence of “riders”).
Enamel reshaping is a conservative process, often combined with some bonding; **does not necessarily require anaesthesia, and is relatively quick and painless.
Although enamel reshaping is a very conservative and simple cosmetic procedure, it does remove some of your tooth’s enamel, which the body cannot replace. In many respects, enamel reshaping, when combined with teeth whitening and conservative bonding, can be the fastest, least invasive and least expensive way to have a smile makeover. Granted not everyone is a candidate for this procedure, and many will require a more comprehensive smile makeover to achieve their goals ( such as veneers, braces, implants, crowns and bridgework, etc.). Frequently, enamel reshaping is the intermediary step before committing to a full smile makeover.
While many people may be able to benefit from some degree of enamel reshaping, careful case selection is necessary to determine if this procedure is viable for the patient. Many times, enamel reshaping is indicated for those people who want to soften the vampire-like points of their canines, or soften and round off sharp, pointy edges, shorten teeth that appear too long, or bring back some teeth in line with the rest.
`Very often, as people age, their teeth start to accumulate little chips and wear facets, which eventually cause the teeth to appear less attractive and misshapen.
Selective reshaping of the enamel can help create a more youthful and harmonious smile, but not everyone is a suitable candidate. Individuals with existing fillings and restorations of very sensitive teeth may not be good candidates for this.
If someone’s wear is due to teeth grinding, called bruxism, then a night guard appliance would be recommended to prevent further wear, especially after reshaping the enamel. Additionally, if you are planning to have braces, it is recommended not to do any enamel reshaping beforehand, as the areas of the enamel that are modified may become more obvious, once the teeth are perfectly straight. If there are still some minor imperfections or sharp edges after orthodontics, then enamel reshaping may be indicated.
While most people will still have little to no sensitivity from enamel reshaping, there are some whose teeth are very hypersensitive as a result of excessive wear, or nerves that are closer to the surface. Your dentist should review your x-rays and assess your level of sensitivity before modifying your enamel.
When the outer layer of enamel is reduced, the underlying enamel, once subjected to the oral environment, will function as the new outer layer. Once polished and treated with fluoride, the tooth will have less of a chance of becoming sensitive, and will not become any more prone to developing cavities.
