As part of Yodle’s marketing services for plastic surgeons, we often interview doctors on topics in which they have expertise. We’ve reviewed some of the best information and put together this guide to how you can locate an experienced plastic surgeon in your area, as well as a list of various websites where you can gain even more information on a particular doctor and read reviews from former patients.

According to Dr. Miguel Yanez, M.D., a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in North Carolina, the first step to ensuring that you’ve found a worthy plastic surgeon is to check out his credentials. However, he warns, it’s not enough to simply read the information that the surgeon has posted on his website, because there are numerous agencies, which are not actually recognized by authoritative organizations, that provide physicians with meaningless certificates. Instead, Yanez explains, there are three very reliable sources that you can easily contact to find out further information about your potential doctor. The first of these is the American Board of Plastic Surgery, which allows you to confirm the certification of any surgeon through a database on its website. T he American Society of Plastic Surgeons is another useful and dependable organization, as well as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

Once you’ve confirmed that the surgeon you are interested in is properly certified, it’s time to set up a consultation. While some may assume that a meeting with a potential surgeon should be more about the procedure you have in mind and your desired results, David Bottger M.D., a plastic surgeon in Cleveland, says that a large portion of the consultation should be spent asking the doctor a number of necessary questions. It’s important, he advises, to find out how experienced a particular surgeon is with the procedure you will be receiving. While you may not be the first patient, you probably don’t want to be the third or fourth either. As with any medical procedure, you want a doctor who has a lot of background, Bottger says. If possible, also find out where and how long his training took place for doing this procedure. In addition to discussing his familiarity with a certain operation, you should also ask to see photos of actual patients as well. Make sure that the pictures being shown to you are pictures of your surgeon’s actual clients, he explains, because you want to see what a person looks like after going through this particular doctor’s procedure.

Lastly, you should never negate the importance of a good recommendation. Having plastic surgery is no longer as taboo as it once was, and chances are that there are numerous people that you encounter everyday who have been through it before. Even if you feel odd asking an acquaintance bluntly for the name of her surgeon, explain that you have been researching doctors in the area and ask if she knows the name of a surgeon that a friend or colleague of hers has used in the past. And if you’d like to read a plethora of reviews from people who have had experience with plastic surgeons in your area before, there are a number of websites that cater specifically to reviewing doctors’ credentials:

• Plasticsurgery.org is the website for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons which allows you to search for doctors in your area who are ASPS certified (meaning that they have received at least three years of medical training specifically in plastic surgery).
• Makemeheal.com allows patients to read important information and real patient reviews of plastic surgeons in their areas.
• In addition to providing you with patient testimonials, realself.com also provides visitors with explanations of common plastic surgery procedures and allows you to ask doctors’ opinions on your initial questions about a possible surgery.

What Is It?

Laser hair removal is a mostly permanent treatment that has recently been added to a number of spa menus. It became popular in the 1990s and is widely accepted in the dermatological community as a safe method for hair removal. It has the ability to cover larger areas than electrolysis, and is more efficient than waxing or shaving because it has lasting results.

The laser tool emits intense light epilators using xenon flash lamps that emit a full spectrum of light. Similar to electrolysis, the light damages the hair follicle without damaging the skin surrounding it. This is done by targeting the melanin, the naturally occurring substance that gives hair and skin color. Over time, the regrowth of hair will lighten, and eventually stop altogether. You are able to shave between appointments, but other hair removal methods are not recommended. As the hair regrows, you will notice each hair grows in thinner, and that the overall growth is less.

Who Needs It?

Those that have grown weary from the daily need to shave benefit most from laser hair removal. If someone considers their excess body hair to be embarrassing, this is an easy and lasting method for removal. It is ideal for those that have lighter skin with coarse, dark hair. Ladies with hair in male-pattern areas like the chin, lip, and tummy may find laser hair removal a great solution. It is also an efficient way to remove hair from larger areas. Electrolysis can only destroy one follicle at a time, while laser removal is able to target a larger area.

Benefits

The benefits of hair removal are mainly hygienic. Those that are uncomfortable with their appearance due to excessive hair growth will find that they feel more confident and attractive once the hair has been removed. Since it is a permanent treatment, it leaves skin soft and clear, unlike shaving. People typically only have a brief reddening of the area treated, unlike with other methods. Other hair removal methods often leave skin rashes and irritated skin for days after the procedure. It is still a good idea to schedule your laser removal appointments for a time when you will not be immediately socializing follow the procedure. The clinician will supply lotion and ice to reduce the reddening.

Risks

One downside of laser hair removal is that you will need to commit to repeated sessions, with limited means for hair removal in between appointments. The risks involved include burning, darkening, and discoloration of the skin. The process is becoming widely popular because it is for the most part permanent, except in a few select medical situations, such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Laser hair removal is often more expensive than other methods of hair removal, but in the long run, laser treatments should save money.

Anyone receiving laser hair removal treatments should be sure they are visiting a licensed medical spa. Laser treatments are considered medical in nature and should not be performed at a regular salon. Clinicians must be properly trained in the use of the laser technology, and they need to understand the biology of the skin to ensure they are treating it safely. There are national organizations that supervise licensed laser removal spas, so check with them for information before your visit.

Hair removal, while often a difficult and embarrassing topic to discuss, is something that will have drastic results when performed properly. It can leave a person feeling cleaner and more attractive once the procedure is complete. It is important to consider all of your options, and choose a laser hair removal spa that is professional and medically licensed. Often, you can combine your hair removal appointment with something more pleasant like a massage. In the long run, choosing laser hair removal will save money and time, and help you feel confident with your personal appearance.

That’s because the secret to healthy skin isn’t sitting on any drugstore shelf. It is being formulated in medical laboratories across the globe, and only qualified dermatologists are licensed to prescribe these miracle skin treatments.

Still not sure the best way of clearing up your face and getting better skin? Read on.

Start With the Basics

Men and women spend billions of dollars every year on cosmetic products used to achieve healthier looking skin. And yet, most dermatologists report that they give out two pieces of advice more than any other. According to a report on ABC News, most dermatologists tell their teenage patients to wash their faces at night and wear sunscreen during the day. It really is that simple.

Before moving on to costly products and medical procedures, every patient should first consider whether he is truly heeding this most basic skin advice.

If you haven’t been washing your face with regularity or wearing protective sunscreen on a daily basis, it is worth trying these options for a number of weeks before going any further—or spending unnecessary resources—on the quest for better skin. Dermatologists say that for the majority of patients, taking just these two simple steps each day does wonders to improve the overall clarity and texture of skin.

Schedule a Consultation

If soap and sunscreen aren’t enough, then it may be time to book an appointment with a licensed dermatologist. Great dermatologists work in nearly every town in America, which is why finding one should be easy. Family and friends are often great resources in this hunt. In addition, patients suffering from acne or other skin condition should check in with their health insurance provider, since many providers cover visits to certain dermatologists. If all else fails, put a call in to the American Academy of Dermatology, which may be able to put you in contact with a licensed dermatologist in your area who is currently taking new patients.

Honesty Helps

It pays to be open and honest about your concerns up front, since a dermatologist can’t help fix the problems that she doesn’t know you have. Because the look and texture of skin varies from person to person, dermatologists cannot tell upon first meeting whether your skin has changed in recent months or years, which can often happen for those suffering from severe sun damage. Thus, patients who wish to have the best experience while visiting a dermatologist should be completely upfront about every cosmetic issue they want fixed.

No problem is too small to discuss, although a dermatologist may be able to point you in the right direction if you have any cosmetic issues that are too minor or major for her to handle.

Ask About Alternate Options

There is more than one way to treat many cosmetic problems, which is why it pays to ask for further advice or clarifications after a dermatologist has recommended a certain course of treatment. Doing  research prior to your dermatology consultation is one way of knowing which options are available—and which treatments your favorite celebrities are using.

Not all fillers—or acne creams, for that matter—are created equal, and the American Academy of Dermatology warns that some may work better on certain skin types than others for different patients. If you have an interest in trying out a certain product, it is worth mentioning that to your dermatologist at the time of the appointment. At the very least, you’ll be able to find out the specific reasons why that product will or will not work for you.

Don’t Leave Without Samples

It is one of the best perks of visiting a dermatologist: Samples! Dermatologists are mailed thousands of trial-sized skin products every day, which is why it is at least worth asking if you can take a couple home before leaving the office. And who knows, there’s a good chance you  find the miracle cure to treat your ailment right in the little basket of free goodies.

The relationship of your jaw bone to your skull is more important than many people realize. When your jaw is properly aligned, all is well—you are able to chew normally, to swallow your food, to breathe freely and to express yourself with a range of facial expressions and unimpeded speech. When a structural problem exists, however, even these basic functions may be compromised.

In order for your jaw to function properly, it needs to be correctly positioned and adequately supported—the bones, muscles, connective tissue and nerves must work together in harmony. Any structural imbalance will prevent the jaw from opening and closing correctly. This type of structural imbalance is called temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ or TMD).

According to The TMJ Association, TMJ disorder is extremely common, particularly among women in their childbearing years. Sometimes TMJ occurs as the result of an injury to the face or head, but often it is the result of nighttime bruxism, teethgrinding or jaw-clenching during sleep. The very doctors and dentists that will ultimately treat your TMJ may also have contributed to it—stretching and holding the jaw open during dental procedures and surgeries is also thought to have an adverse effect on a developing TMJ condition. Certain autoimmune disorders and low-level infections can also cause inflammation or degeneration of the jaw joint, worsening TMJ-related symptoms.

Do I Have TMJ?

A report published by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research explains that the first sign of TMJ is usually craniofacial (head and face) discomfort or a dull, throbbing pain in the jaw. A clicking or popping sound in the joint when you open and close your mouth is also a sure sign that you should be evaluated for TMJ. However, other, less obvious symptoms can also point to a problem with your jaw’s alignment.

Because of the joint’s proximity to the ears, TMJ can cause ear pain and other ear-related discomforts such as vertigo (dizziness), tinnitus (a “ringing” in the ears) or the sensation that the ears are clogged. Some patients also report tooth sensitivity or general aches and pains, most often involving the head, eyes, neck, throat and shoulders. Chronic “tension” type headaches are one of the most prevalent symptoms of TMJ disorder. Because of the variety of symptoms associated with TMJ, misdiagnosis is common.

What Are the Benefits of Treatment?

The primary benefit to treating your TMJ is the relief of the pain and discomfort associated with your condition. When the joint is repositioned properly, your ability to move your jaw freely is restored and TMJ-related symptoms are lessened or eliminated.

There are other preventive benefits to treatment as well. Leaving your TMJ untreated may set you up for more serious problems over time, including sleep apnea, migraine headaches, back or neck pain, and muscle spasms. If the condition is aggravated by ongoing grinding, clenching or repeated injury, you could ultimately face challenges with speech, chewing and swallowing, facial expressions and even breathing.

What Are the Risks?

There are many ways to treat TMJ. The most common and least invasive is the use of a special appliance to prevent grinding your teeth and clenching your jaw during sleep. Your dentist will likely also prescribe rest for your jaw and may suggest stretches and relaxation techniques to help you avoid putting excess pressure on the joint. These non-invasive treatment techniques are not associated with any major risks although some discomfort may be associated with wearing an appliance.

Another treatment option involves irrigating the joint using a local anesthetic and the injection of fluids. This procedure is generally effective at relieving the pain associated with TMJ and, if not successful, can perform a valuable role in diagnosing the root cause of your discomfort. This minimally-invasive procedure is associated with few risks.

As a last resort, surgery may be considered. As with all surgeries, certain risks are involved. You may experience bleeding, swelling, pain or infection. Although rare, nerve damage or injury to the adjacent ear may also occur.

The Bottom Line

While TMJ can certainly be debilitating condition, it is also treatable. With the help of a qualified dentist, your jaw can be coaxed back into its proper alignment, eliminating the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ and restoring the joint to its full function.

While none of us have perfect teeth, we do see many celebrities and even people we know with perfect smiles. How did they get that way? What did they do differently? It could be that they brush three times daily and floss once a day. Yet we have all seen the people who take terrific care of their teeth and still end up with teeth they don’t love.

Imagine walking into a room and actually lighting it up with your smile. When the photographer says cheese, you actually show those pearly whites. After years of complaining about your teeth now is the time to take control of your mouth. Zero reduction veneers may be the answer you have been looking for.

What Are Zero Reduction Veneers?

Veneers help improve your smile if you have gaps, discoloring of the teeth, chips, or even misalignment. With regular veneers the procedure includes the dentist removing parts of the enamel from your teeth. This enables the dentist to fit the new veneers over your real teeth. So what is different about Zero reduction veneers?

Normally veneers measure approximately .4 to .8 mm in length. Some veneers such as Lumineers, though, only measure .3 to .5 mm. What does this mean? This means that the thin veneers allows for a no reduction process on your teeth. When using the ultra thin veneers, the dentist would not have to shave off any tooth enamel.

Who is the Best Candidate?

While you may be reading this and think this is the right option for you, you may want to think again. Many dentists are particular as to who is a good candidate or good fit for the zero reduction veneer procedure. Most dentists follow similar rules and other may go a stricter route.

The first question the dentist will ask himself is if this approach will bring forth the most optimal results for you. This would not only deal with how the teeth will look afterwards, but also how they will feel. Every aspect must be considered.

A good candidate may have smaller teeth, where the slim veneers will fit easily with good results. He or she may also have small gaps or spaces in between the teeth. This would allow for an easier fit as well.

Some other preferences for the best candidate would be:

• Minimal discoloring of teeth
• No buck teeth
• Nearly straight teeth

So it seems that the best candidate may not have the perfect smile, but he should be near perfect for better results.

What Are the Benefits?

The biggest benefit of using a zero reduction veneer approach is Zero Reduction. The dentist will not have to reduce the tooth enamel. Since the dentist will not have to reduce the teeth, this may also mean that there will also be no need for drilling. Drilling is usually why people avoid the dentist. Imagine getting to a dentist appointment and knowing that there will be no drilling?

If there is no drilling, then more likely than not there will also be no need for an anesthetic. Anesthetics are given by needles. Another reason people avoid the dentist is because of needles. What a nice perk not to get a needle at the dentist.

And why not? With technology like veneers, tooth whitening, Invisalign, natural colored fillings, and dental implants, a dentist’s ability to give patients the pearly white teeth they’ve always dreamed of has never been easier.

Overall, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reports that some of the most envied celebrity smiles include Halle Berry, Julia Roberts, Hilary Duff, Matthew McConaughey, Maria Sharapova, and Tiger Woods.

Of course, it isn’t just everyday people wishing for an A-list smile. Many of the celebrities themselves have undergone cosmetic dental work as well. Just a few of the hundreds of stars who’ve copped to getting work done in recent years, according to Fox News, include pop star Hilary Duff, Michael Douglas, Jon Bon Jovi, Oprah Winfrey, Jessica Simpson, Nick Lachey, Britney Spears, and Tom Cruise.

So which stars’ smiles do fans envy most? We took a closer look.

Tom Cruise

Tom Cruise’s smile took center stage a few years back, when he elected to have adult braces put on after discovering that his teeth were misaligned. Rather than going with traditional braces or Invisalign, however, Tom opted for ceramic brackets which are much less noticeable than metal varieties. Tom wore the braces for less than one year before unveiling an entirely new, straighter smile.

To get a smile like Tom’s, orthodontists recommend having a consultation to see if adult braces are the right option. Although ceramic brackets are usually more expensive than traditional braces, they also blend in much easier with teeth, making ceramic brackets the preferred orthodontic option for adults electing to get braces for the first time.

Hilary Duff

It has been years since Hilary Duff first got veneers, an option she has said she chose as a way to correct four front teeth that were chipped on a microphone back in 2005. Since then, Hilary has reportedly undergone numerous refinement procedures, ensuring that her new teeth are the perfect shape, length, and color.

For the many Hilary Duff fans hoping to emulate their favorite star’s smile, experts at the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry recommend using porcelain veneers, which are moldings made from high-tech materials that cover the front of a patient’s teeth. Because the moldings are custom-made, patients with veneers are able to choose a new smile that meets whatever specifications they choose.

For patients hoping to look more like their favorite celebrity, veneers are the cosmetic option that is most likely to deliver the desired result. However, especially with younger patients, it is important to keep in mind that veneers are a permanent option and the effects are not reversible.

Julia Roberts

For patients looking for a smile that is as blindingly white as Julia Roberts’, the best option will likely be to undergo teeth whitening at their dentist’s office.

Time and time again, American adults say having whiter teeth is the biggest change they’d like to see in their smile. And while thousands of over-the-counter products exist to help with the process, celebrities like Julia Roberts opt for a quicker, in-office option.

By using whitening products such as Zoom! teeth whitening, cosmetic dentists can make their patients’ teeth an average of eight shades whiter in as little as 45 minutes. Not only that, but the process is pain-free, safe, and lasting, which are just some of the reasons it is favored by so many Hollywood celebrities looking for a smile refresher before big events and awards shows.

Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker’s timeless smile has long been rumored to have been boosted with the help of a teeth whitening procedure and gum lift. One of the lesser known cosmetic dentistry options, gum lifts add length to short teeth by evening out the gum line for a more visually pleasing grin.

One of the reasons gum lifts have become an increasingly popular option is because 80% to 90% of all lifts are done in conjunction with porcelain veneers, which have also taken off in popularity in recent years. However, as with so many Hollywood smile fixes, gum lifts don’t come cheap. Patients can expect to pay an average of $300 per tooth for a gum lift, up to $4,000 for a full mouth arch.

Custom crafted to fit the tooth they are intended to repair, inlays and onlays can be made from metal, porcelain or composite resin. Because of their natural tooth-like color, porcelain or composite inlays and onlays are often used as replacements for metal fillings in patients who are particularly concerned about the appearance of their teeth.

Inlays and onlays are usually applied over the course of two dental appointments. At your first visit, your tooth will be prepared for the inlay or onlay and an impression will be taken from which the final restoration will be made. You will be fitted with a temporary restoration that will stay in place until your permanent replacement is ready. Your second visit will involve the final bonding of your permanent inlay or onlay to your tooth’s surface.

Who Needs Them?

Since inlays and onlays can be used for both treatment and replacement purposes, there are two groups of candidates for this type of tooth restoration.

First, individuals with highly noticeable metal fillings may wish to consider inlays or onlays as replacements in order to enhance the appearance of their teeth. Because both porcelain and composite resin are extremely natural-looking (and are available in several shades to match your tooth color), restorations made from these materials are less noticeable and can improve your appearance overall.

Furthermore, many dentists now recommend replacing amalgam fillings with a composite or porcelain alternative for reasons that go beyond just cosmetic concerns. First, amalgam can expand and contract, causing the tooth to either become more susceptible to breakage as it expands, or allowing harmful bacteria to enter the tooth and cause further decay as it contracts. Second, there is some concern in the dental community about the long-term safety of amalgam (mercury) fillings. The American Dental Association acknowledges these concerns, but reports that “the major U.S. and international scientific and health bodies, including the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Public Health Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the World Health Organization, among others have been satisfied that dental amalgam is a safe, reliable and effective restorative material.” Still, some notable dental care providers like Hal Huggins, whose criticisms of amalgam fillings were featured on 60 Minutes, insist that the mercury in amalgam fillings is absorbed by the body and can contribute to serious neurological problems. If you are concerned about possible complications related to your metal fillings, inlays or onlays made of porcelain or composite can be effective replacements.

More routinely, inlays and onlays are used to repair mild to moderate tooth decay and damage and to prevent further decay by sealing the tooth permanently. Individuals with moderately severe cracks, chips or cavities are good candidates for inlays or onlays.

Benefits

Inlays and onlays allow your dentist to preserve more of your natural tooth. While crowns require extensive tooth preparation that can traumatize the root and surrounding gum tissue, inlays and onlays involve only surface preparation.

Inlays and onlays also add strength to the teeth. According to André V. Ritter, DDS in the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry, whereas traditional fillings can weaken the tooth and make it more prone to breakage, inlays and onlays provide added durability and improved bite strength. In fact, many dentists who perform this type of restoration claim that teeth restored with inlays or onlays are able to withstand up to 75% more chewing force. Unlike metal fillings, porcelain and composite inlays and onlays do not expand or contract. So, they offer a more effective, longer-term solution for tooth decay.

Risks

Few risks are associated with the placement of inlays and onlays. Because little preparation is involved, the risks of a reaction to local anesthesia are minimized. In a few cases, patients experienced allergic reactions to the materials used in inlays and onlays. If this happens, an alternative material may be used.

The Bottom Line

Whether you are concerned about aesthetics, are worried about the potential health effects of metal fillings, or simply prefer a more conservative treatment approach, inlays and onlays offer an attractive, highly effective solution for restoring mildly to moderately decayed or damaged teeth. More durable than fillings and free from the uncertainties surrounding amalgam fillings, inlays and onlays are a win-win for the health and appearance of your smile.

What is oral surgery?

Oral surgery is any medical procedure that serves to correct problems associated with the mouth, teeth, and jaw. Many dentists who practice oral surgery are also experts in the field of maxillofacial surgery, which involves surgeries relating to the face, sinuses, and neck.

The most common type of oral surgery is wisdom tooth extraction. Most adult mouths only have room for a certain number of teeth. By the time the wisdom teeth are ready to emerge, often there just isn’t enough room for them to break through the surface of the gum, which results in impacted wisdom teeth. When wisdom teeth become impacted, they can throw off the alignment of the rest of your teeth. They are also likely to become infected, as food and debris can easily get trapped inside them if they are not fully emerged. The only way to correct the problem is to extract the wisdom teeth via a simple outpatient surgery performed at the dentist’s office.

Other types of oral surgery include jaw surgery (to treat issues such as TMJ), dental implants, and facial trauma repair. Though less common than wisdom tooth extraction, these procedures are regularly performed by dentists who are trained in oral surgery.

Who needs oral surgery?

Anyone suffering from mouth or facial ailments that can only be treated with surgery should contact a dentist and schedule a consultation for oral surgery. This includes people with impacted wisdom teeth who may not currently be experiencing any discomfort; problems from wisdom teeth can arise out of the blue if the teeth are not removed.

In the majority of cases, oral surgery is not really elective, but rather, a must. Putting off oral surgery will only prolong or, in some cases, worsen, an existing problem.

Benefits of oral surgery

Oral surgery will eliminate the symptoms of whatever specific issue is causing the patient to require the surgery. In the case of wisdom tooth extraction, many patients who previously complained of pain and swelling in the area of the impacted tooth felt much better after the problematic tooth was removed. Similarly, many patients who decided to undergo jaw surgery found that symptoms such as jaw pain, headache, and facial tension went away or diminished significantly after having oral surgery.

Another good thing about oral surgery is that the surgery itself is usually pain-free. Patients are properly sedated and anesthetized during oral surgery for both comfort and safety reasons. In fact, many patients will tell you that having a wisdom tooth extracted is less painful than a routine cavity filling.

Risks of oral surgery

Unfortunately, all medical procedures come with a degree of risk. Whenever anesthesia is used during a procedure, there is an extremely small chance of something going awry. To avoid complications, be sure to disclose any medical allergies to your dentist prior to the procedure.

The specifics risks of oral surgery depend on the type of procedure involved. For example, surgery to extract an impacted lower wisdom tooth carries the risk of damage to the nearby lingual nerve, which can result in temporary or, in rare cases, permanent, numbness in that region of the mouth. Extraction of an upper wisdom tooth carries the risk of sinus damage. Your dentist will discuss the risks involved in the type of oral surgery you need and review your treatment options with you to devise the safest and most effective game plan.

In all cases of commonly-performed oral surgery, the probability of significant, permanent damage is extremely low. Otherwise, oral surgery would not be worth the risk.

While damaging side effects are rare in oral surgery, post-operative discomfort is certainly not uncommon. Different procedures involve different recovery periods, and your dentist will discuss this with you prior to your appointment so that you can prepare accordingly. Your dentist will also provide you with detailed instructions for post-operative care. The more you follow these instructions, the more likely you are to recover quickly and comfortably.

The bottom line

Nobody looks forward to oral surgery, but the benefits of it clearly outweigh the risks. A few days of unpleasantness are certainly worth a lifetime of comfort.

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.

Generally performed by a cosmetic dentist, tooth contouring allows trained dentistry professionals to reshape the length, position, and shape of a patient’s teeth with the help of computer imaging and X-ray technologies. And unlike costly procedures—such as veneers—and time-consuming solutions—such as braces—tooth contouring can be used to correct a patient’s entire smile in as little as a day.

What is tooth contouring?

Tooth contouring—also known as dental contouring—is when a cosmetic dentist changes the shape, length, position, and overall look of a patient’s teeth through a sculpting process that involves a sanding drill or laser. Thanks to recent advances in computer imagine technology, most cosmetic dentists can now show patients what their smile will eventually look like before going through with the procedure.

Once the patient has agreed on a final look, the cosmetic dentist will begin the procedure by gradually removing a small amount of surface enamel from the teeth. Once this enamel has been removed, the dentist will likely rub an abrasive strip across the teeth to further alter the shape before eventually smoothing and polishing teeth throughout the entire mouth. Although some patients request novacaine prior to undergoing the procedure, many others find that anesthesia of any kind is completely unnecessary.

While tooth contouring delivers immediate results for many patients, some may need to come back for a maximum of three tooth contouring appointments before achieving the smile they desire. For those patients who desire more dramatic results, many cosmetic dentists recommend returning to the office for follow-up procedures using techniques such as bonding and veneers.

Who are the best candidates for tooth contouring?

Tooth contouring is an ideal solution for a patient of any age who has ever wish his or her teeth were less crowded, lacked pits and groves, or didn’t feature prominent chips or fractures.

Due to the nature of the procedure, the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry reports that optimal candidates for tooth contouring should have healthy teeth with a normal amount of bone to ensure that the contouring enamel has enough live bone tissue to graft on to. Candidates with thin enamel, gum structure problems, teeth that are still shifting, or teeth that have recently erupted may not be considered ideal candidates for the tooth contouring procedure, and may need to eventually seek out a different cosmetic dentistry procedure to find the results they are looking to achieve.

What are the benefits of tooth contouring?

For patients looking to make minor tweaks to the look of their smile, tooth contouring can be a perfect solution. Among the benefits contouring can deliver, according to the Colonial Dental Group in Chicago, include changing the shape and length of teeth, fixing chips and features, correcting unevenness and tooth overlaps, reducing the look of overcrowding, and diminishing the pitted surfaces that plague so many smiles.

Because even small changes in the mouth can deliver major results, patients undergoing tooth contouring can expect a brand new smile upon the completion of the procedure.

In addition to the cosmetic benefits, tooth contouring can deliver benefits to a patient’s overall dental health as well, since reducing overlapping teeth makes them easier to clean and reduces the risk of cavities and other oral infections such as gum disease. Small problems with a patient’s bite and chewing function can also be remedied by tooth contouring as well.

What risks are involved?

Because tooth contouring involves removing enamel from the teeth, the largest risk of the procedure is of removing too much enamel, thus increasing the chances of breaking a tooth or experiencing rapid decay. Any patient who knows that he grinds his teeth during the night should avoid undergoing a tooth contouring procedure, since he is more likely to experience complications and may find the results of the contouring process to be short-lived.

With that said, these risks can be greatly reduced by choosing a licensed cosmetic dentist with experiencing in performing the tooth contouring procedure. For recommendations on how to find a qualified professional, check with dental licensing boards or your local Chamber of Commerce.