Tooth Shaving Cost

Last Updated on September 17, 2023 | Written by CPA Alec Pow
First Published on January 25, 2021 | Content Reviewed by Certified CFA CFA Alexander Popivker

Shaving the teeth, also described as oral contouring, interproximal reduction, or an enameloplasty, is the procedure of getting rid of a percentage of enamel from the tooth. This cosmetic treatment will change the length and/or shape of the tooth, and the general objective is to narrow the teeth. According to daily health, even a couple of millimeters in the right place can significantly enhance the look of your teeth.

This treatment is typically recommended to those who wish to either make a small tooth modification or enhance the appearance of a couple of teeth. According to the majority of dental experts, this treatment is typically done on teeth that are a little uneven or when one tooth might stand out more than another.

Just how much does shaving teeth cost?

The expense of shaving teeth will depend upon the dental practitioner carrying out the treatment, the geographical area, the complexity of the situation, and the number of teeth that will have to be shaved. Typically, this treatment can vary anywhere from $70 to as much as $250 per tooth without insurance coverage.

You might also like our articles about the cost of tooth extraction, dental cleaning, or dental bridge.

Everyday Health notes that this is an affordable method to enhance the appearance of your teeth, typically costing $50 to $300 per tooth, depending upon the quantity of work that will have to be done. If this problem was caused by an accident, for example, then there’s a likelihood your oral insurance policy might cover the treatment.

Shaving teeth summary

This treatment is frequently done to narrow the teeth, repair tooth crowding, or repair teeth with a width inconsistency. Shaving teeth, the majority of the time, is typically done to close the space in between the teeth, which often occurs when braces are put on.

Shaving can be carried out by either utilizing an oral drill used to cut the teeth or it can be done by hand, where the dental expert utilizes diamond-covered strips that are worked backward and forward in between the teeth. The approach the dental practitioner will go for depends upon the quantity of enamel that will need to be removed. The Animated-teeth website notes that if it’s a small amount that has to be eliminated, generally .3 mm or less, then the dental expert will typically utilize their hands, however, if it’s a bigger reduction, a drill will more than likely be utilized.

What are the additional expenses?

Dentist Shaving TeethBefore the treatment, oral x-rays might be required to make certain your teeth are healthy enough for the treatment. Some dentist offices can mix the x-ray costs into the treatment, while others might charge this individually. Oral x-rays are usually $50 to $100 more, depending upon the number of x-rays needed.

Throughout the treatment, the dental professional will mark your teeth with a specialized highlighter to show you the locations that will need to be resculpted. A sanded instrument will then be utilized to get rid of flaws on the tooth, basically “shaving” it. Lastly, the tooth will be smoothed out and polished.

Shaving your teeth is frequently the stepping stone to other treatments in the future. Other treatments such as veneers, crown lengthening, and tooth whitening are typically carried out months after when the client can afford t get them.

Touch-up work might be needed, depending upon your specific scenario.

Tips to keep in mind

Since only the enamel is taken away, the procedure tends to be pain-free and no anesthesia is needed. Depending upon the approach the dental professional makes use of, it will either seem like a minor pull between the teeth or a minor vibration of a drill.

Getting rid of small overlaps and flaws can aid to decrease the threat of decay or gum illnesses.

How can you save some money?

You might need to talk to your insurance provider to see if they can offer protection for the service. They might be able to supply full or partial protection for the service if it’s considered clinically required. You may only be accountable for the deductible or copay. If you do not have insurance coverage, the DentalPlans website provides dental plans that can aid you to save as much as 60% on your consultations with local dental professionals, acting as your own insurance coverage.

In many cases, this can in fact be the most affordable alternative to take into account. For instance, if only some of your teeth had an imperfect look, the dental professional might perform this treatment, saving you from getting expensive braces in the future.

Alec Pow
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