Composite Veneers: A Cost-Effective Solution For Small Teeth
Everybody wants a white, even smile, but if one or more of your front teeth are noticeably smaller than the others, practising good dental hygiene will only take you so far. Teeth that are smaller than their surrounding teeth, a condition known by dentists as localised or focal microdontia, may have a serious effect on your confidence.
If you have an uneven smile because of unevenly sized teeth, composite veneers applied by a cosmetic dentist can be a cost-effective solution. Here is everything you need to know about how composite veneers can be used to correct localised microdontia:
Why Are Some Of My Teeth Smaller Than Average?
There are many reasons why some of a person's teeth may grow to a smaller size than the surrounding teeth. In most cases, localised microdontia is caused by a harmless genetic quirk inherited from your parents. You may also have some small teeth if you were born with a cleft lip and/or palate which has since been corrected, or have inherited a genetic condition that affects tooth development.
Can Small Teeth Cause Dental Problems?
In most cases, a few small teeth are harmless. However, because small teeth do not touch the opposite tooth when your mouth is closed, the surrounding teeth may wear more quickly, and be more vulnerable to long-term dental problems. You may also get food trapped in the gaps on either side of your small tooth or teeth, which can lead to tooth decay.
Smaller than average incisors or canines (the front teeth) may also have a harmful effect on your mental health, and you may feel shy or lack confidence when you smile or laugh. Mental health problems caused by poor body image can seriously affect your wellbeing, so having veneers fitted to mask the appearance of your small tooth or teeth can be a wise move for your overall health.
How Can Composite Veneers Correct Small Teeth?
Composite dental veneers are thin strips of material, made from the same type of composite resin used for dental bonding. They are crafted to closely mimic the look of real teeth and are attached to the front-facing surface of the affected tooth or teeth using dental cement.
They can be used to treat a variety of cosmetic dental problems, such as teeth that have become discoloured due to damage or illness, and are especially useful for correcting localised microdontia. After the small tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, the veneer is attached and allowed to bond. Once the adhesive has cured, the veneer-covered tooth will look virtually indistinguishable from a healthy, normal-sized tooth.
To learn more, consult with a cosmetic dental specialist.