Porcelain Veneers for Small or Misshaped Teeth By Dr. Everett Heringer on November 15, 2018

If you have small or misshapen teeth, it can not only detract from the aesthetics of your smile, it can also put you at risk for oral health issues. Cosmetic dentistry treatments, such as porcelain veneers, can address these issues and create a more balanced, symmetrical smile.

Today, our Bismarck, ND dental team explores porcelain veneers for small or misshaped teeth and explains what patients can expect during the treatment process.

What Causes Small or Misshapen Teeth?

In some cases, individuals are simply born with small or misshaped teeth. However, there are other reasons why an individual may develop this condition, including:

Bruxism: Chronic teeth grinding or clenching can cause erosion of the teeth, making them appear smaller.
Misalignment: If the teeth are crooked, overlapped, or out of alignment, it can give the illusion that certain teeth are small or misshapen.
Gaps or spacing: Gaps between the teeth can make normal-sized teeth appear small.
Excess gum tissue: A “gummy smile” can throw off the tooth-to-gum ratio, making the teeth seem smaller than they really are.

The Importance of Addressing a Small or Misshaped Tooth

No matter what caused the problem, small or misshaped teeth can affect the appearance of your entire smile. More importantly, however, these issues can affect the way your teeth fit together. This can result in bruxism, TMJ disorder, and more. Therefore, it is important to address these problems as soon as possible to preserve the integrity of your smile.

How Porcelain Veneers Work

Before you receive porcelain veneers, your doctor will remove less than one millimeter of enamel from the affected teeth. This will create a better bonding surface and make room for your new veneers.

Once the teeth are prepped, impressions will be taken. These will be sent to our dental lab, where a technician will create your veneers. In the meantime, temporary veneers may be placed to protect the teeth.

Once your final veneers are ready, you will be scheduled for a second appointment. At this visit, your doctor will assess the fit of your veneers and bond them into place. If any additional adjustments are necessary, they will be performed.

Why Choose Veneers for Small or Misshaped Teeth?

Veneers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments, and with good reason. Veneers reflect light in a similar fashion as natural enamel. This slightly translucent feature delivers a smile that is incredibly beautiful and lifelike. Furthermore, porcelain veneers are precisely color-matched to blend in with the rest of your smile.

Are There Alternative Options?

Yes! Patients who prefer a less-permanent solution can choose dental bonding. Like porcelain veneers, bonding can conceal a wide range of cosmetic flaws.

This treatment involves the application of composite resin. Once applied to the teeth, the composite is hardened with a curing light, then polished to a high shine.

It is important to note that dental bonding does have its limitations. If you would like to determine which treatment option is best for you, schedule a consultation with your dentist.