What Causes Short Teeth?
Microdontia is the proper term for “short teeth” which is condition wherein the patient’s teeth appear smaller, like baby teeth. Sometimes the tooth itself is misshapen or underdeveloped, and sometimes the tooth itself is actually smaller. Some patients also experience issues with their gums where the tooth appears smaller. Often this condition is genetic, but occasionally it develops over time through erosion.
There are generally three types of microdontia. The first is the most rare, wherein the patients teeth are actually smaller throughout their entire mouth. This can occur when the patient is exposed to radiation early in life, or when they carry a genetic marker for microdontia. This form is called general microdontia, and it affects all the teeth in the patient’s mouth. Relative generalized microdontia is when the patient does not have small teeth, but the alignment and size of their gums and jaw makes it appear this way. Local Microdontia is the most common, and it occurs when one tooth appears smaller or is less developed. Local microdontia most often occurs in third molars, i.e. wisdom teeth, or incisors.
If you are not born with microdontia, can it develop over time?
Your teeth are sturdy dependable parts of your body, but over many years they will experience wear and tear. Without persistent dental hygiene, acids and bacteria will take their toll on our teeth. Many patients who suffer from Gastroesophageal reflux disorder, GERD or Acid Reflux, will experience some localized form of microdontia.
Patients who consume a lot of acidic foods and drink, particularly soda, will experience extrinsic erosive wear. This will cause erosion all over the surface of the tooth. Eventually the wear on enamel and dentin will make the tooth appear smaller.
Patients who experience acid reflux will lose tooth material on the back of their teeth, due to acids rising up the esophagus while they rest. This is known as intrinsic erosive wear.
Bruxism, or tooth grinding, is another cause of tooth erosion. Patients who suffer from bruxism grind their teeth consciously or unconsciously. The consistent mastication pressure will cause damage over time, which can alter the shape of the tooth.
What can you do about Short Teeth?
Start by treating the root cause.
- Genetics- If you have microdontia because of a genetic inheritance, you can care for them as best as you can for as long as you can. Eventually you may need to seek replacement options, or bonding.
- Bruxism- If you are grinding your teeth away you may seek treatment in a mouthguard, and maintain frequent visits with your dentist.
- Intrinsic or Extrinsic Erosive Wear- You should seek to treat the underlying cause and take good care of your teeth. It could be as simple as cutting soda or cigarettes out of your diet, or you may need a prescription.
Replacement Options
A great option to consider are veneers. Porcelain veneers look beautiful, and they are attached to a reduced piece of original tooth material often. The dentist can remove a micrometer off your existing teeth in order to attach near perfect tooth veneers.
You can also consider dental bonding.
See your dentist to discuss options today.