Is Contouring a Good Option for My Overbite ?

Question

I have a slight overbite and my doctor suggests I let her contour my teeth to create space for my front teeth to be pushed back into. She says I have larger front teeth so contouring will help with their appearance as well. Is this recommended ? Will contouring make my teeth too narrow ?

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

I am sure that if your dentist recommended slight contouring of the teeth it would be warranted.  Slight recontouring is performed sometimes in conjunction with orthodontics to help give ideal dimensions for the teeth.  As long as it is slight I think that it would be fine.  Good luck.

James D. Salazar, DDS · Answer

If your front teeth are crowded and pushed forward then contouring or reshaping of the teeth to allow them to move into a better position is an acceptable option. If the teeth could benefit cosmetically from contouring them they should look nice. The only way they will look too narrow is if your dentist makes them too narrow. This procedure is under complete control of the dentist. You may be able to preview the narrowing of the teeth by using a black Sharpie pen to color the tooth structure that will be removed and holding a mirror at arms length to preview the teeth. Remember once the tooth is contoured it will never be the same. Hope that helps.

Martin Frankel, DDS · Answer

Overbite refers to how much the teeth overlap, overjet refers to how far in front of the lower teeth, the upper teeth are positioned.  From your description it sounds to me like you might be talking about overjet.  If I understand you correctly, you are talking about creating some space so that your upper front teeth can be retracted and reduce the amount of overjet.

	If this is the case, the contouring you are talking about is also known as interproximal reduction or tooth slenderizing.  This is an accepted method to create space for orthodontic tooth movement.  Done correctly it is a very controlled way to reduce the width of the teeth and should be a good way to solve your problem.

	Be aware though that I have not seen your situation and everyone is unique.  If you have any doubts, seek a second opinion as Dr. Marzvaan has suggested.

Keith Blankenship, DDS · Answer

If your dentist suggested this to you then it may be a viable option. Thinning of teeth is typically not recommended but along with orthodontics it can be utilized to create space.  You may wnat to go to an orthodontist or another dentist for a second opinion.  It mainly depends on the ratio of the length and width of your teeth as to how much reduction is ok cosmetically.  You have to also remember that when thining teeth, they can become sensitive if too much enamel is removed.  Seek a second opinion and then return to your original dentist to talk about your options and his intial recommendation.

Soheyla Marzvaan, DDS (retired) · Answer

I am not an orthodontist, but I have seen patients contour their teeth . Without an exam it is difficult to say, but now a days most doctors and specialists offer free second opinions and consultations . GET ONE.

	Also ask your dentist to get study casts from your teeth and show how much he/she wants to reduce the size of your teeth.

	 

	good luck

Is Contouring a Good Option for My Overbite ?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tooth Contouring

Answer: Tooth Contouring

Answer: Is contouring teeth a good Idea ?

Answer: Is contouring teeth a good Idea ?

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Is Contouring a Good Option for My Overbite ?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tooth Contouring

Answer: Tooth Contouring

Answer: Is contouring teeth a good Idea ?

Answer: Is contouring teeth a good Idea ?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smile Makeover

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.