Tooth contouringalso known as enameloplasty or tooth reshapingis a quick, painless cosmetic dental procedure that helps refine the shape, length, or surface of your teeth for a more symmetrical, beautiful smile. While the procedure is minimally invasive, proper aftercare is essential to maintain your results and ensure long-lasting dental health.
At McLevin Dental in Scarborough, our mission is to help patients enjoy not only a brighter smile but also a healthy one. If youve recently had tooth contouring done or are considering it, this guide will help you understand how to care for your teeth after treatment and protect your investment in your smile.
What Happens During Tooth Contouring?
During tooth contouring, your dentist gently removes small amounts of enamel to improve the shape, balance, and appearance of your teeth. The process is typically quick, requires no anesthesia, and results are immediate. Its often used to:
Smooth out chips, ridges, or uneven tooth edges
Correct slightly overlapping teeth
Create a more uniform smile line
Improve minor bite issues
Does Tooth Contouring Require Aftercare?
Yes, even though its minimally invasive, proper post-treatment care is essential to protect the enamel that remains and keep your teeth looking and feeling their best.
Top Post-Treatment Care Tips for Tooth Contouring
1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Your newly contoured teeth are still susceptible to cavities and gum disease. Brush twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss carefully once a day to remove plaque between teeth and along the gumline.
2. Be Gentle with Your Teeth
The enamel reshaped during tooth contouring doesnt grow back. While the amount removed is minimal, its crucial to avoid habits that could cause damage, including:
Nail-biting
Chewing on ice, pens, or hard objects
Using teeth to open packages
These habits can lead to chipping or cracking.
3. Watch Your Diet
Hard, sticky, and overly acidic foods can wear down enamel faster, especially after tooth contouring. Try to minimize:
Hard candies and nuts
Sticky sweets like caramel or taffy
Acidic beverages like soda, citrus juices, and energy drinks
Instead, choose enamel-friendly options like cheese, leafy greens, and water.
4. Manage Sensitivity
Some patients may experience mild tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods after tooth contouring. This is temporary and usually subsides within a few days. Using a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth can help manage this.
5. Avoid Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
If you grind your teeth at night or clench your jaw, it can wear down your enamel even faster after tooth contouring. Your dentist may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your smile while you sleep.
6. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Continue your regular dental visits every six months. During these visits, your dentist at McLevin Dental will check the integrity of the reshaped enamel and ensure your overall oral health remains excellent.
7. Consider Fluoride Treatments
Ask your dentist about professional fluoride treatments, which can help strengthen enamel and protect against cavitiesespecially important after enamel reduction procedures like tooth contouring.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Tooth contouring does not require a formal recovery period. Most patients leave the dental chair and resume their normal activities immediately. Mild sensitivity is the most common side effect and typically resolves within a few days.
Protect Your Beautiful Results
To ensure that your contoured teeth stay beautiful long-term:
Practice gentle brushing and flossing.
Avoid habits that strain or damage enamel.
Use enamel-strengthening products like fluoride toothpaste.
Stay committed to regular dental visits for preventive care.
When to Contact McLevin Dental
Reach out to your dentist if you experience:
Persistent or increasing sensitivity after a week
A visible crack or chip on the contoured tooth
Any discomfort or concerns about the look or feel of your tooth after treatment
At McLevin Dental, we are always here to answer your questions and provide ongoing support to maintain your beautiful smile.
Trust McLevin Dental for a Confident Smile
Tooth contouring is a simple yet powerful way to refine your smile quickly and painlessly. With proper post-treatment care, your results can last for many years, boosting both your confidence and dental health.
If youre considering tooth contouring or need advice on maintaining your smile after treatment, our caring dental team in Scarborough is ready to help. Book your appointment today and take the next step toward the smile you deserve.