Clint Newman, DDS

Fix Small Teeth

Oct 11, 2016 @ 10:49 AM — by
Tagged with: Cosmetic Dentistry

Have Small Teeth? Want to Fix Them? Here’s How

Every smile is different from the next. In fact, not all teeth are equal in size or even shape. Patients with small teeth, or more specifically smaller than average teeth, can be described as having microdontia. Adults with microdontia may appear to still have baby or primary teeth. Because the teeth are so small, gaps can easily form, which can then affect the look and function of your smile.

 

There are varying levels of microdontia – truly generalized microdontia, relative generalized microdontia, and individual microdontia. Some experience all or a handful of teeth that are smaller than the normal size range, while others only have one tooth that is considered abnormally small. Whatever the case, microdontia is actually rather common and often attributed to genetics.

Thankfully, modern technology and cosmetic dentistry methods can quickly and easily restore your teeth to regular size and shape.

Many people with smaller than average teeth do not have microdontia. Smaller than average teeth can be a simple product of genetics that can be corrected with many different treatments customized to your needs. Ultimately, the best solution should be decided between the dentist and yourself in a one-on-one meeting.

Porcelain Veneers

When it comes to reshaping and re-sizing teeth for a more balanced and natural-looking smile, dental veneers are a popular choice – understandably so. Little to no tooth prep is generally necessary, so the already small teeth (or tooth) associated with microdontia should not need to be further whittled down. The quality and grade of material used for porcelain veneers is what truly gives this treatment its durable, long-lasting, and aesthetically appealing traits.

Other Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions

Depending on the severity of a patient’s microdontia, alternative popular treatments to veneers include dental composites and crowns.

 

CrownsDental crowns are also used in other restorative treatments, but in the case of microdontia, crowns provide the ability to make a tooth stronger by covering up the weaker, or in this case, smaller tooth. Crowns look like caps for teeth and come in a few different materials. Today, like veneers, crowns are most popularly made out of porcelain to look more natural and last longer.

Dental Bonding Dental bonding does not need a lot of pre-procedural dental work either. It adheres and forms well to existing teeth, though dental composites are not meant to be very long lasting. Rather than fixing your entire smile, composites may be best for just one or a few small teeth.

Not sure which solution best fits your needs?

We can help. At Clint Newman DDS, we are devoted to restoring and aesthetically improving smiles and to meeting the high expectations of our patients. If you think that you may have microdontia or are interested in one of our cosmetic dentistry services in general, please fill out our easy to use online form to schedule your next appointment with us.

 

Nervous about treatment or even routine check-ups? Ask us about sedation dentistry – a pain-free and comfortable way to experience the dentist’s office.