Are Short Teeth Common?
Patients who feel self-conscious about their teeth looking “smaller” are very common. The medical condition known as Microdontia is prevalent, although true generalized microdontia is fairly rare. Microdontia is a condition where the teeth do not fully develop, and thus appear “small”
Many patients experience symptoms of microdontia. Some develop it over time through erosion or generalized wear and tear; others are born with it. The first step to treating the problem is ascertaining what the root cause of microdontia is.
What Causes Microdontia or Small Teeth?
- Genetics- Some are born with it. Everyone’s body develops in its’ own unique way. Some peoples teeth simply do not develop to the “adult size” usually in patients with short-stature or down’s syndrome. This typically refers to generalized microdontia. Patients may consider complete replacement options or dental bonding.
Erosion- Many patients will experience some form of microdontia as a result of GERD or acid reflux. Patients lose tooth material due to routine exposure of acids from the esophageal tract, or foods they eat. These acids wear away at enamel and eventually the dentin of the teeth, leading to smaller looking teeth.
Bruxism- Bruxism or tooth grinding is very common. Patients consciously, or unconsciously at night, grind their teeth wearing away and misshaping them.
How Can a Dentist Repair Small Teeth or Microdontia?
Your dentist should begin with a complete examination. A routine cleaning should reveal any underlying problems, as well as gaps in your personal dental hygiene routine. Your dentist may make recommendations for your diet, your hygiene, and even potentially a specialist to be seen.
You can then begin discussing whether your options include restorative or cosmetic dentistry, as well as complete restoration work. Some professionals prefer to work with the existing tooth material, while other may suggest dental implants and new teeth.
Your Options for Microdontia
1. Bonding- Composite tooth bonding is the act of adding high-tech composite resin to the surface of teeth, either extending them or reinforcing them. This is a great option in the case of localized microdontia, where one tooth appears smaller than all the others. The procedure takes about one hour per tooth, and does not require additional pain medications or anesthesia. Many Prefer this option for simple ease of use, and cost effectiveness.
2. Veneers- Veneers are a top of the line option in terms of smile restoration. Veneers have been sought after for years, because the porcelain used help make your smile more lustrous. Veneers are caps which are attached to reduced version of your teeth. Usually your dentist will remove a micrometer of tooth material around an otherwise healthy tooth root, in order to affix a porcelain cap.
3. Dental Implant- Dental Implants are a top of the line tooth replacement option. Dental Anchors are placed into the jaw, stimulating bone and jaw growth, and integrating with the existing tissues. This allows dentist to rebuild entire rows of teeth in order to provide patients with new smiles.
See your Dentist today to discuss tooth replacement options and caring for Microdontia.