Many people feel self-conscious about their smiles because their teeth seem too small. While this might be only an aesthetic concern, in some cases it can lead to eating difficulties, teeth grinding, or issues with the jaw. Luckily for anyone concerned about their small teeth, cosmetic dentistry can transform a smile into a more ideal shape. Here’s what you might want to know about what your dentist can do to upsize your teeth.
Why Are My Teeth Small?
Microdontia is a condition in which teeth are small or appear to be small. Some people have a few teeth that seem undersized, while other people may have small teeth in most or all of their smiles. These conditions are usually caused by genetics, so they tend to show up more in certain families. However, they can also result from development issues like a cleft palate or radiation exposure. There are three common types of microdontia:
True generalized microdontia: All a patient’s teeth are disproportionately small.
Relative generalized microdontia: The teeth are normal-sized but seem to be small because of a large jaw or the gums extending too far beyond their roots.
Localized microdontia: One or several teeth are disproportionately small. This is usually found in the upper teeth and is the most common form of microdontia.
How Can a Dentist Make My Teeth Bigger?
While small teeth may only be of aesthetic concern, they can also increase risks of oral health issues by increasing wear and tear, causing an uneven bite, or making it easier for food debris to become trapped between them. There are several dental treatments that can enlarge the teeth, including:
Dental bonding: Your dentist will apply a tooth-colored composite resin to your teeth, building them up in size before shaping the material to match the curves of your teeth and hardening it with a special light. This is an affordable and brief procedure that requires no anesthesia or alteration of healthy tooth structure.
Porcelain veneers: Your dentist will remove a tiny amount of enamel before cementing a porcelain shell that mimics your tooth’s natural shape, color, and luster into place on its front surface. This can reshape a whole smile and is the open secret behind the immaculate grins of many movie stars.
Gum recontouring: If your gums are just covering too much of your normal-sized teeth, gum recontouring can remove excess gum tissue, exposing more natural tooth structure.
Small teeth are common, but they can be treated with modern dentistry. Consulting with your dentist will determine if any of these cosmetic procedures can make your teeth a more ideal size.
About the Practice
Barker, Rohner, & Hunt DMD strives to exceed expectations at a comfortable, modern, and technologically advanced dental office in Raleigh, NC. Led by Drs. Brandon Hunt, Bruce Barker, and Walter Rohner, the staff is dedicated to creating lasting relationships through effective care and old-fashioned customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as the treatments listed here. To learn more about enlarging small teeth, contact the office online or dial (919) 847-7100.
