Tooth Contouring Cost

How Much Does Tooth Contouring Cost?

Contouring: $50-$500 per tooth

For dental contouring (also called tooth reshaping), the cosmetic dentist uses a laser, sanding drill and/or abrasive strips to make a tooth more attractive by removing minute amounts of tooth enamel. Usually no anesthetic is needed, and the procedure can be used to correct slightly crooked, chipped or cracked teeth or to shorten a long tooth.

Typical costs:

• Fees for dental contouring range from $50-$500 per tooth, depending on how much work is needed, local rates, and the expertise and reputation of the cosmetic dentist.

• Dental insurance typically does not cover dental contouring, which is considered purely cosmetic. However, tooth contouring might sometimes be covered if the reshaping is required after an accident or injury.

What should be included:

• The improvements provided by tooth shaping can be subtle. WedMD.com provides a before-and-after photo[1] (slide number 5).
• Dental contouring is relatively pain-free, and is often done in one visit to the dentist. A typical treatment takes 15 to 30 minutes per tooth. X-rays are used to identify the location and size of the pulp of each tooth. The dentist marks each tooth with a pencil, and uses these marks to carefully sculpt the tooth with a sanding drill or laser, and abrasive strips are used to shape the sides. EverydayHealth.com provides an overview[2] .
• Dental contouring is not a substitute for braces or other procedures that make major changes in the position or appearance of teeth. However, contouring is sometimes done just after braces are removed, to fix minor imperfections that still remain. Contouring is often combined with other procedures, like dental bonding, teeth whitening or veneers.

• Dental school clinics[3] offer reduced rates for services by supervised students or faculty.
• The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research provides tips for finding low-cost dental care[4] .

• WebMd.com provides tips for finding a dentist[5] .
• The Amcerican Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry recommends asking about a dentist's specific training and experience in cosmetic procedures, as well as references and before-and-after photos of past patients. The dentist should explain exactly what will be done during the dental contouring procedure. The Academy offers a cosmetic dentist locator[6] .