Many people feel that their teeth aren’t quite big enough. The condition of having teeth too small for one’s mouth is called microdontia, and it can affect how the teeth are aligned and lead to issues with chewing, the jaw, or teeth grinding. In many cases, however, a person’s concerns about their small teeth are entirely cosmetic. Here’s what can cause teeth to appear small as well as what your dentist can do to address the issue.
What Can Cause Small Teeth?
While some people may only have one or two small teeth, other people may have small teeth throughout most or all of their smile. Microdontia can be a hereditary condition that runs in families. In other cases, it can be the result of a development issue such as a cleft palate or exposure to radiation. It can even result from excessively worn-down teeth due to injuries or teeth grinding, leading to microdontia becoming more common with age. The most common types of microdontia include:
- Localized: A few teeth appear to be too small. This form of microdontia is the most commonly found type and is typically found in the upper teeth.
- Relative Generalized: While the teeth may be of normal size, they may appear small due to being set in a large jaw or when the gums cover too much of the teeth.
- True Generalized: All of a patient’s teeth are disproportionately small. This type of microdontia is typically the result of a condition like pituitary dwarfism.
What Can My Dentist Do to Fix My Small Teeth?
Porcelain veneers are the open secret to how many of America’s favorite Hollywood actors have nearly flawless smiles. Veneers are thin shells that mimic the color, luster, and shape of natural teeth, and they can be used to add height and width to teeth that seem to be too small. The procedure can typically be completed in two appointments.
During the first appointment, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic and remove a tiny amount of enamel from the teeth being treated. They will then take bite impressions before cementing temporary veneers into place. These impressions will be sent to a laboratory so a permanent set of veneers can be manufactured. This permanent set will usually arrive at your dentist’s office in about two weeks.
During the second appointment, your dentist will remove your temporary veneers and cement your permanent ones into place. Teeth receiving this treatment will need to wear veneers for life, and with proper care, veneers can last for up to twenty years.
Different cases of microdontia can require different solutions. If your teeth appear small as the result of excessive gum tissue, gum recontouring can remove some of it using a soft tissue laser. Consulting with your dentist will determine if these treatments or any other is right for you.
About the Author
Dr. James P. Kostas earned his dental doctorate from the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine before completing a General Practice Residency at the Harvard University Dental School and the Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He has achieved his Fellowship with the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Burlington, MA offers general, pediatric, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as porcelain veneers and gum recontouring. For more information on treating small teeth, contact the office online or dial (781) 272-0441.
