Your teeth can appear small for a number of reasons, ranging from genetics to wear and tear, and overgrown gums. For some, it’s just one or two teeth that seem shorter or narrower than the rest. For others, their whole smile looks small or disproportionate. Either way, it’s a lot more common than many realize. But there’s good news! There are several effective ways cosmetic dentistry can fix small teeth. Continue reading to see some of the best.
Porcelain Veneers
If you’re looking for a dramatic, long-lasting solution for small teeth, porcelain veneers are worth discussing with your dentist. These are thin, highly customized ceramic shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. With veneers, your dentist can reshape each tooth to change its size, length, and the overall symmetry of your smile.
They’re a popular choice for patients who want to address multiple cosmetic issues with a single comprehensive treatment. So, if you have other issues beyond just the size, like discoloration, cracks, or chips, veneers could be a perfect fit.
Dental Crowns
While dental crowns aren’t recommended for healthy teeth like veneers are, they can be used in a similar way. Any teeth that have become severely damaged, whether by injury or decay, can be restored, protected, and improved.
A crown covers the entire visible portion of a compromised tooth. This means it can be crafted in a way that not only repairs a tooth but also reshapes it into a more aesthetically pleasing and functional size.
Invisalign
Sometimes teeth can appear small because spacing or alignment issues are throwing off the overall proportions of your smile. If crowding or gaps are part of the picture, Invisalign, alongside or in place of other cosmetic work, could be a fantastic way to bring everything into balance.
While it’s not always the answer, your dentist can tell you whether alignment is affecting how your smile looks. If so, they can explore clear aligners with you and see if they belong in your treatment plan.
So, out of these options, which one should you choose? The truth is, it depends. Your dentist will look at how many teeth are affected, what’s causing the issue, and what your overall smile goals are. Once they have an idea of what’s going on in your mouth, they can build a path to a smile that’s bigger, brighter, and more balanced.
About the Author
Dr. Troy Jones earned his dental degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and has been practicing dentistry since 1987. He founded his San Antonio practice in 1994 and is a proud member of the International Team for Implantology. With decades of experience in cosmetic and restorative care, Dr. Jones is dedicated to helping patients in San Antonio achieve healthy, confident smiles. Call (210) 349-4408 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation at Troy Jones, DDS & Associates or visit our website to learn more.