Small teeth in Westborough may adversely affect your bite, leading to a number of dental problems and other difficulties. Even if your small teeth are not a threat to your oral health, it is understandable if you feel self-conscious about their appearance. What causes small teeth, and what can your dentist do to correct the problem? This blog post provides the answers to those questions.
Reasons for Small Teeth
There are two common reasons for small teeth:
- Genetics. You may have small teeth simply because your DNA programmed them to be that way. This issue may affect a few teeth or all of them.
- Teeth grinding. Older individuals who have struggled with bruxism (teeth grinding) for years may find that their teeth appear short and stubby.
Of course, it is also possible that the size of your teeth is perfectly normal. They may just appear small due to excess gum tissue or a larger-than-average jaw.
Addressing Small Teeth
After you consult with your dentist, you may discover that one or more of the following treatments can make your teeth appear larger:
Veneers
Veneers are thin, custom-made pieces of porcelain that cover the outward-facing surfaces of teeth. They can make the front teeth appear longer and/or wider. Plus, they look incredibly natural and are durable enough to last for 15 – 20 years or longer. You can choose to get veneers on just a few teeth, or you can opt for a full set that makes over your entire smile. (Dental bonding can also reshape the teeth, but it is not as durable as veneers.)
Crowns
Whereas veneers are typically used only for the teeth that are visible when you smile, porcelain crowns can be placed on virtually any tooth. Because they cover the entire portion of a tooth that is above the gumline, they offer an excellent way to restore both the appearance and function of teeth that have become worn down due to years of bruxism.
Gum Contouring
Gum contouring, also known as gum recontouring or gingivectomy, does not reshape the teeth. Rather, it removes excess gum tissue in order to expose more of the dentition beneath. As a result, the teeth may appear longer and more proportionate with the rest of your facial features. This treatment may be appropriate for you if more than a few millimeters of gum tissue are visible when you smile. You can also choose to pair gum contouring with crowns or veneers in order to completely transform your look.
Small teeth can be an annoying problem. Fortunately, your dentist offers treatments that can address this issue and possibly even give you a confidence boost!
Meet the Practice
The team at All Dental in Westborough is proud to offer a wide range of treatments, including veneers, porcelain crowns, gum contouring, and more. If you would like to address your small teeth, we invite you to come in for a cosmetic consultation or contact us at 508-217-7265 to learn more about us and our services.