Everything You Need to Know About the Cost of Teeth Reshaping

An In-Depth Look at Teeth Reshaping Cost

Having a perfect smile is a dream for many. But for some, their teeth may be misaligned, unevenly sized, oddly shaped or have other cosmetic flaws that make them self-conscious about showing their smile. This is where teeth reshaping, also known as dental contouring, can help.

Teeth reshaping is a cosmetic procedure that removes small amounts of enamel to refine the shape, position and appearance of teeth. It's a relatively quick and non-invasive treatment that can reshape teeth for a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

If you're considering teeth reshaping, one of the first things you'll want to know is - how much does it cost? The price can vary quite a bit depending on several factors. This article provides an in-depth look at the costs associated with teeth reshaping procedures.

What Is Teeth Reshaping?

Teeth reshaping, or dental contouring, is a cosmetic procedure that sculpts the natural tooth enamel to improve the appearance of teeth that are chipped, misshapen, unevenly sized, or otherwise flawed. It is an alternative to orthodontics like braces or Invisalign for minor alignment issues or cosmetic flaws in the teeth and smile.

The process involves removing small amounts of enamel using a sanding drill, abrasive strips, or minor dental bonding material. It is a minimally invasive, relatively quick procedure performed without anesthesia in a dentist's chair. The enamel is sculpted into a more desirable shape and then polished smooth.

Teeth reshaping is commonly used to treat issues like:

• Overlapping or crooked teeth
• Asymmetrical teeth
• Irregularly rounded teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Worn down teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• Small, pointed teeth
• Excessively long teeth

It can adjust the length, shape, position and overall appearance of the teeth for a more uniform, aligned, and aesthetically pleasing smile. The results are immediate.

What Does Teeth Reshaping Cost?

On average, the cost of teeth reshaping ranges from $300 to $2,500 per tooth. However, the price varies based on several factors:

1. Extent of Reshaping Needed

How much work is required to achieve the desired results will impact the cost. Minor enamel reduction and shaping will be on the lower end of the price scale. More complex reshaping that requires meticulous detailing and precision work will cost more.

2. Number of Teeth Being Reshaped

If you only need one or two teeth contoured, it will be less expensive. If you want 5, 8 or 10 teeth reshaped, the costs scale up accordingly.

3. Location and Condition of Teeth

Front teeth that are visible when smiling are more complex to reshape and require specialized skill for the best aesthetic results. Premolars and molars that aren't readily visible may cost less. Teeth that are severely misshapen require more reshaping and expense than minor issues.

4. Your Geographic Location

Like most healthcare services, costs vary by where you live. Teeth reshaping in New York City will likely cost more than in a small town. The cost of living and average wages where your dentist practices impacts their fees.

5. Type of Dental Practice

Cosmetic dentistry specialists with advanced reshaping skills, technologies and specialty training may charge more than general dentists offering the service.

6. Brand of Dental Materials Used

The cost of specific brands of sanding equipment, bonding materials, dental sealants and other products used can add to the total price.

The Teeth Reshaping Process

The teeth reshaping procedure usually completes in three steps over one or two dental visits.

Consultation

It starts with an examination, consultation and development of a treatment plan. The dentist will evaluate your teeth, take x-rays if needed, and discuss options for achieving the smile you want through reshaping. A digital smile simulation may be done to show you the potential results. The number of teeth requiring reshaping and estimated costs will be reviewed.

Reshaping

At the next visit, the actual teeth reshaping takes place. Local anesthesia is usually not required. Your dentist will use a sanding tool with a fine grit diamond surface to gently contour the enamel. Your teeth are smoothed and shaped according to the treatment plan. The process removes a fraction of a millimeter of enamel at a time to conservatively reshape the teeth.

Polishing

Once the reshaping is complete, your teeth are polished to restore their natural luster and smooth surface texture. Your dentist may also apply a sealant to protect the enamel. Follow up visits may be scheduled to evaluate the teeth and make any adjustments after seeing how the initial reshaping integrates with your bite and other teeth.

Benefits of Teeth Reshaping

Compared to other smile enhancement options, teeth reshaping offers a fast way to improve the look of your smile with minimal impact. Benefits include:

• Conservative treatment - Only small amounts of enamel are removed so tooth structure is preserved.
• Fast results - Reshaping takes just minutes per tooth for immediately visible improvements.
• No anesthesia - Local anesthesia is rarely needed for the pain-free procedure.
• Little to no recovery time - You can return to normal activities right after the procedure is done.
• Preserves healthy tooth - Unlike dental bonding or veneers, it does not cap teeth with materials.
• Permanent, natural looking - Reshaped enamel blends seamlessly with your natural smile.
• More affordable - Lower cost than other major smile makeover options.
• Supplements other treatment - Can be combined with whitening, bonding or veneers.

Is Teeth Reshaping Right For You?

Teeth reshaping is an excellent option if you have:

• Mild to moderate flaws in tooth shape, spacing or alignment
• Chipped, worn or uneven teeth
• Small gaps between teeth
• Slightly crooked or overlapped teeth
• Naturally narrow, sharp teeth
• A few minor issues affecting your smile

Teeth reshaping isn't recommended for:

• Severe misalignment requiring realignment of the bite
• Rotated teeth needing repositioning
• Discoloration or stained teeth
• Excessively small or large teeth
• Smile flaws affecting most or all teeth evenly
• Major gaps of missing teeth and other complex issues

For major orthodontic correction or whole smile makeovers, options like braces, veneers or dental bonding may be better options to discuss with your dentist.

Does Insurance Cover Teeth Reshaping?

Teeth reshaping is typically considered a cosmetic dental procedure, rather than a medical necessity. This means dental insurance usually doesn't cover the costs. However, there are a few cases where insurance may pay a portion, such as:

• Reshaping to smooth a chipped or fractured tooth
• Adjustments after braces or injury to restore normal tooth contours
• Medically necessary treatment of congenital tooth issues

For primarily cosmetic teeth reshaping procedures insurance rarely helps. Confirm coverage details with

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.