Take a look at your teeth in the mirror. Do they seem smaller than you would like? Having short, stubby teeth isn’t always an oral health issue, but it can still leave you feeling unhappy about the way your smile looks. The good news is that modern cosmetic dentistry offers multiple potential solutions for this type of imperfection. Below is an overview of what can cause unusually small teeth and how your dentist may be able to fix the problem.
Possible Causes of Small Teeth
There are several reasons why your teeth might look smaller than normal:
- Genetics: The fact of the matter is that teeth naturally come in different sizes. Some people are simply born with teeth that are smaller than average thanks to their genetics.
- Bruxism: A condition called bruxism can cause you to frequently grind and clench your teeth. This can significantly wear down your enamel over time, thus making your teeth shorter.
- Acidic Erosion: Some foods and beverages are acidic. Consuming them too often can lead to erosion of the teeth, often making them appear shorter and thinner than before.
How Can Small Teeth Be Addressed?
There are a few different ways for your dentist to fix small teeth in order to help you enjoy a more proportionate-looking smile:
- Cosmetic Bonding: This relatively simple procedure involves applying a small amount of tooth-colored composite resin to the teeth in order to hide minor aesthetic flaws. In some cases, the resin can be placed on the ends of the teeth to make them look longer. Not only is cosmetic bonding typically more affordable than other treatments, but it can often be completed in a single appointment.
- Veneers: A veneer is a thin shell that can completely cover the front of a tooth. Not only can veneers be used to make teeth look longer, but they can also hide other imperfections (such as chips and discolored spots) at the same time. Veneers are highly durable and can often last around 10 to 15 years with good maintenance.
- Metal-Free Dental Crowns: Nowadays, dental crowns can be made out of tooth-colored materials such as porcelain, allowing them to restore worn-down or damaged teeth in a way that looks natural. If your small teeth have been weakened or damaged in some way, metal-free dental crowns can be used to improve your appearance while also protecting your smile from further harm.
If you’re less than pleased with the current shape and size of your teeth, you should reach out to your dentist. They’ll be more than happy to help you explore your options for creating a proportionate smile that you can show off with full confidence.
About the Author
Dr. Caleb Goodman has over a decade of dental experience. He studied dentistry at Midwestern University, and he holds membership with the Arizona Dental Association. He is proud to currently serve as the dentist for the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Guardians baseball teams and staff. His Goodyear practice, Goodman Dental, offers a variety of cosmetic dental services that include cosmetic bonding, veneers, and metal-free crowns. If you’re bothered by small teeth, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Goodman by visiting his website or calling (623) 925-8822.