Do your teeth look unusually short? If so, then chances are that you’re not happy with the impression your smile gives off. It may not be immediately obvious how short teeth can be fixed – but rest assured your cosmetic dentist does have a few solutions that are worth considering. Below, you can learn more about what can cause short teeth and how they can be addressed.
Why Do Your Teeth Look Short?
Some people are born with teeth that are naturally shorter than normal. In other cases, though, the teeth might actually be of normal length, but they look small due to an excessive amount of gum tissue covering them; this results in what’s known as a “gummy smile.”
Many older adults end up with shorter teeth due to wear-and-tear. While tooth enamel is very strong, it is constantly exposed to the forces of biting and chewing. As such, it will start to wear down over time. That said, the change is very subtle, and you may not realize that anything is different until you notice a tooth that’s now around half of its original size.
Is Having Short Teeth a Serious Problem?
It depends on the case. For some people, it’s simply a cosmetic issue that can add a decade or more to their appearance. However, if shorter teeth affect your bite, it could lead to a TMJ disorder, which is often characterized by jaw pain and headaches. If you have any concerns regarding short teeth, you should speak to your dentist.
What Treatments Are Available for Short Teeth?
There are various treatments that can help address shorter-than-normal teeth:
- Veneers: Veneers can be used to make all kinds of cosmetic changes, including making teeth look longer. A single veneer can be attached to the front of a specific tooth to hide all of its imperfections. Keep in mind that enamel has to be removed before veneers can be placed, so the treatment isn’t reversible.
- Metal-Free Crowns: Crowns are often a good option for significantly worn-down teeth. Many dentists offer crowns made out of tooth-colored materials that can blend in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
- Cosmetic Dental Bonding: Cosmetic dental bonding can be used to make many of the same changes as veneers, but it’s a more cost-effective option if you only have one or two teeth that need to be improved. A bit of composite resin is applied to the tooth to lengthen it.
Are you tired of being embarrassed about short teeth? Reach out to your dentist today and ask what solutions they might recommend.
About the Author
Dr. Rashpal Deol belongs to the California Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and various other professional organizations. For patients bothered by short teeth, he can perform a variety of cosmetic treatments such as veneers and cosmetic dental bonding. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Deol at Oak Ridge Dental in San Ramon, visit his website or call (925) 735-6190.
