Whether orthodontists perform a final reshaping, often described as “shaving,” on teeth once braces are removed is a common question. This subtle procedure, known as dental contouring, is a final, elective step in many orthodontic treatment plans. It involves the careful removal of a microscopic amount of tooth enamel to refine the alignment and appearance achieved after months of correction. This process perfects the smile’s aesthetics and ensures the teeth fit together optimally, completing the transformation to a uniform, straight smile.
Understanding the Purpose of Tooth Contouring
The goal of contouring is to transition teeth from being straight to being finished, both functionally and aesthetically. Orthodontists differentiate between two main types of contouring, each with a distinct purpose. The first is Interproximal Reduction (IPR), a functional procedure involving the removal of minute amounts of enamel from the sides of the teeth to create necessary space. IPR is often done to resolve minor crowding, reduce “black triangles” near the gums, or ensure an ideal bite relationship.
The second type is Aesthetic Contouring, also known as enameloplasty, which focuses on visual refinement. This procedure smooths rough or uneven edges, corrects minor chips, or reshapes teeth that appear pointed or disproportionate. It addresses subtle imperfections remaining after the teeth have been successfully straightened by braces. The aim of both types of contouring is to achieve a balanced, symmetrical, and complete smile that functions efficiently.
The Procedure: How Orthodontists Reshape Teeth
This subtle reshaping technique focuses on precision and minimally invasive adjustments to the tooth surface. The orthodontist uses specialized instruments designed to remove only fractions of a millimeter of the hard outer layer of the tooth, the enamel. The process is generally quick and is often completed during the final appointment when the braces are removed or shortly thereafter.
The tools employed vary depending on the extent of the reshaping needed. For IPR between teeth, the orthodontist may use very fine, diamond-coated abrasive strips or files. For aesthetic contouring of the tooth edges, small, high-speed rotary instruments, such as fine diamond burs or discs, are used. Since enamel does not contain nerves, the procedure is typically painless and does not require local anesthesia.
Patients generally experience a sensation similar to having their nails filed, noting the vibration. The precision of the tools allows the clinician to sculpt the tooth structure with great accuracy. The entire process of contouring several teeth is usually completed in a single, short session, serving as the finishing touch to the orthodontic journey.
Safety, Limits, and Long-Term Enamel Health
The safety of tooth contouring is rooted in the conservative nature of the procedure and the strict limits placed on enamel removal. Orthodontists remove only the outermost layer of enamel, typically no more than 0.25 to 0.5 millimeters from any single surface. This limited reduction is well within the acceptable margin of the tooth’s natural structure.
When performed correctly, the procedure does not compromise the structural integrity of the tooth or increase the risk of sensitivity or decay. Removing too much enamel, however, could expose the underlying dentin, a softer, more sensitive layer. Therefore, a thorough examination, often including X-rays, is performed beforehand to confirm the tooth is healthy and has sufficient enamel depth.
Immediately following the reshaping, the treated surfaces are carefully polished and often treated with a topical fluoride application. Polishing ensures the reshaped enamel is smooth, preventing plaque accumulation and maintaining a healthy surface texture. The fluoride helps to remineralize and strengthen the minimally altered enamel surface, providing long-term protection.