Teeth come in many shapes and sizes, and some people find their teeth to seem smaller than they should be. While this may be of no consequence to a person’s oral health, the issue is worth addressing if it makes someone anxious about smiling proudly. Here’s a quick look at some of the cosmetic dental treatments that can expand and reshape short, small, or stubby teeth.
Why Are Some Teeth Small?
Teeth can seem small for a wide variety of reasons. In many cases, a person is simply born with teeth that seem smaller than would be ideal. In others, an individual may experience oral injuries that break off sizeable sections of their enamel and leave their teeth shorter or slighter. While small teeth sometimes carry no negative consequences for a person’s oral health, large gaps between them can leave the gums vulnerable to injury and infection. The issue may make biting difficult for some people.
Veneers Can Transform a Smile
Veneers are astounding cosmetic appliances that mimic the ideal appearance of natural dental structure, and they can completely transform a smile in as few as two appointments. These devices are designed to be cemented over troubled teeth to conceal mild to severe defects such as chips, cracks, stains, and gaps, and they can even be used to reshape small or stubby teeth or realign a smile in some cases.
However, the process of placing them requires permanent alterations of the patient’s enamel, meaning the process is irreversible and teeth that receive them will need to wear them for life for protection. With excellent care, veneers can last for fifteen years or more before needing replacement. Many dentists also offer Lumineers, which are devices similar to veneers but do not usually require modifications to the patient’s enamel so they can be removed without problems later.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a quick, simple, and effective way to close gaps between teeth and conceal defects such as chips, cracks, and stains. This treatment is completely noninvasive and painless without anesthesia, and it consists of your dentist applying a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin to the targeted defect, shaping this putty-like material until it is flush with the curves of your smile, and hardening the new restoration with a specialized UV light. The results of this treatment can last for three years or more if you practice excellent oral hygiene.
Don’t let small teeth make it difficult for you to be proud of your smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand the best way to achieve your ideal grin.
About the Practice
Market Heights Family Dental offers the finest oral healthcare in Harker Heights. Led by Drs. Matthew Tochterman and Gary Pundt, the staff treats each patient with respect, the utmost courtesy, and exemplary customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry. If you are concerned about the shape of your teeth, contact the practice online or dial (254) 699-3565.