When you look at your teeth in a mirror, you may think you will forever be stuck with the way they currently look. However, dentistry has come a long way in recent years, meaning almost anything is now possible when it comes to your smile. This also includes making your teeth look bigger or smaller, both of which can be done using various procedures. If you’ve got concerns about your teeth and wonder what options may be possible for you, here are some innovative dental procedures that could change the looks of your teeth.
Porcelain Veneers
If your teeth are too narrow or too short, porcelain veneers can be used to solve your problem. Made to look exactly like your existing teeth, porcelain veneers can add width to narrow teeth, making them look bigger. If you have short teeth, veneers can make your teeth longer, so long as your bite will allow for the increased length. This is an important consideration for a dentist when considering making your teeth bigger or longer. Though veneers are typically used when trying to improve the visual appearance of your teeth, the main purpose of your teeth are still to chew, and thus, your ability to chew is the most important consideration.
Recontouring
When you need to change the shape, length, or surface of your teeth, your dentist may do what is known as recontouring. Also referred to as reshaping, this has your dentist carefully removing small amounts of tooth enamel. A very effective treatment, it tends to yield excellent results. The process is typically done with the same type of drill that is used to shave down the enamel when treating a cavity. Typically, people can get this done without any pain killers as the nerve endings are typically lower down in the enamel than what is shaved on when recontouring.
Dental Crowns
A tooth-shaped cap that is placed over your tooth, a dental crown is cemented into place and covers the visible part of your tooth. Looking very natural, crowns can be used to restore your tooth’s natural shape, whether it needs to look bigger or smaller. If you have been considering dental implants, it may be time to reach out to a professional like Total Freedom Dental Implant Center to answer any of your questions. They can walk you through the options available to you and whether or not dental crowns are the best option for your needs.
Gum Contouring
A procedure used when you have small teeth, gum contouring involves adding length to your teeth by getting rid of excess gum tissue. Using a state-of-the-art diode laser, your dentist will be able to trim away the excess gum tissue around your teeth. When the job is finished, your teeth will look instantly longer, giving you that great smile you’ve always wanted. This procedure is typically done out of necessity for pain or issues related to overgrown or swollen gums. This procedure typically requires a numbing agent and it is typically done on sections of your mouth at a time. Usually, you will have a few days or weeks of soreness but the recovery is typically pretty fast.
If you are self-conscious about your smile when you look in a mirror, don’t make the mistake of assuming nothing can be done. Whether your teeth are too small or too big, one visit to your dentist can help you realize the many procedures used to correct these issues. Whether it’s porcelain veneers, dental crowns, or gum contouring, it won’t be long until you are eager to smile every chance you get.