What’s the best way to reshape a few teeth after braces? I’m 57 and invested in braces because I was uncomfortable with my smile. My teeth are aligned, but some are misshaped, and the edges are uneven. The orthodontist offered to harmonize the teeth with dental bonding, but I think of this as a cosmetic procedure. Although she did a beautiful job with my teeth, I hesitate to let an orthodontist do the reshaping. Am I missing something or being overly cautious? – Thanks. Sanitia from GA
Sanitia,
We understand your concerns. If you want cosmetic dental work, you should feel comfortable and confident about your provider.
How Does Enameloplasty Work?
Enameloplasty reshapes the front teeth to improve their appearance. The dentist removes small amounts of enamel, then polishes the surface to make it look smooth and natural. The reshaping should stay strictly within the enamel.
When done conservatively, it can refine uneven edges and improve symmetry without the need for porcelain veneers or crowns.
Who Should Perform Enameloplasty?
The technical aspect of smoothing enamel is straightforward. The real challenge lies in judgment. Enamel does not grow back, so the dentist must understand how reshaping will affect appearance and function.
If the adjustments are minor, orthodontists often perform this step at the end of braces treatment. For more noticeable changes, we recommend seeing a skilled cosmetic dentist
Look for a provider with the following experience:
- Showcases a broad portfolio of cosmetic cases
- Produces consistent, natural-looking smile results
- Has credentials from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
These qualifications help ensure the dentist understands smile design principles and bite stability.
Why Schedule Consultations Before Choosing a Dentist for Enameloplasty?
Before moving forward, schedule consultations to ensure your preferred dentist has the artistic eye and the functional knowledge required for this procedure.
Dentists who routinely perform cosmetic procedures understand how to adjust tooth proportions without disrupting function. The balance between beauty and stability is what protects your results long term.
Dr. James Gavrilos, a Barrington, Illinois, accredited cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post. Read about his commitment to provide some of the best dental care in Barrington.