A narrow smile is defined by mouths that show fewer teeth when a person smiles, and a cosmetic dentist can fix such imperfect smiles. So, if you have a narrow smile that you’re unhappy with, there is no need to worry. Because a few minimally invasive and effective dental treatments can help fix it.
Read on to learn how a dentist can fix a narrow smile.
What Causes Narrow Smiles?
The width and alignment of the teeth cause narrow arches in the mouth, which can also cause the smile to look narrow when teeth are missing. Eventually, a narrow smile leads to the thinning of lips and the cheeks being unsupported, resulting in an aged appearance.
Also, the broadest part of the smile appears darker and affects your smile’s appearance, and this even creates an illusion that the front teeth look too prominent or stick out. It is known as the “narrow buccal corridor.”
Signs and Symptoms of Narrow Smiles
Some of the common signs and symptoms of a narrow smile are:
- Lisps/speech impediments/problems
- Mouth breathing
- Incorrect tooth alignment
- Inner cheeks and tongue are bitten frequently
- Discomfort when eating, biting, or chewing
- Patients with narrow smiles can leave their cheeks unsupported or be affected by thinning of the lips
- Change of face shape and appearance
How to Fix Narrow Smiles?
Four successful treatments that can help fix the problem of narrow smiles are:
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Orthodontics
You probably must have noticed plenty of kids in high school who had braces, but did you know that many adults get orthodontic treatment too? Correcting misaligned jaws and crooked teeth makes it easier to clean them or has several roll-on effects. In addition to this, visibly straighter teeth may significantly impact your smile’s appearance.
Braces and aligners help move your teeth and jaw into desired positions over time. With regular adjustments being made by your dentist throughout your treatment. Clear aligners are one of the best solutions for adults who want to change their smile without altering their lifestyle and getting noticeable metal braces.
Your dentist will set the length of your treatment based on how much your teeth and jaw require to move and the type of braces or aligners you choose. Some treatments can be completed in a few months, while others may take a year or even more.
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Invisalign
Invisalign has become the popular choice as they are the most innovative and fastest fix for narrow smiles. Patients can now straighten their teeth in half the time using removable aligners instead of fixed braces and can do so discreetly. Hence, Invisalign is a product designed to make orthodontic treatment less conspicuous.
Even though Invisalign aligners may not be completely invisible, these clear coverings fit tightly over the teeth. They are almost unnoticeable compared to the brackets and wires of traditional braces.
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Tooth Extraction
Sometimes, in cases where there is extreme and severe overcrowding of teeth, the dentist may prescribe a tooth extraction to correct narrow smiles. Removing a single tooth or teeth provides extra space for the teeth to spread out and helps fix problems like crooked teeth.
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Veneers
Dental veneers are thin restorations that a dentist may add to the front of your teeth if you’re looking to correct chips, small gaps, cracks, discoloration, or slightly crooked teeth. Composite resin veneers are built up in the mouth, while porcelain veneers are custom-made to fit over the teeth.
Veneers can be an alternative to changing the shape of your teeth or teeth whitening. A dentist can help you select the veneer material in a color that matches your natural teeth or even in a lighter shade. While dental veneers can be a solution for minor crookedness. Your dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment if you have more severe alignment issues.
Want to Fix the Problem of Narrow Smiles and Make Your Smile’s Appearance Better? Contact RiverRock Dental, Shakopee, MN
You must be aware of the effects a narrow smile, if left untreated, can have on your oral condition, regardless of the type of treatment you choose to fix it. Future problems such as bone loss in the jaw, gum and periodontal disease, and eventual tooth loss may occur.
A detailed assessment and clinical evaluation help highlight the major factors that may impact your overall smile. The dentist can then create treatment plans to show the advantages and disadvantages of different treatment options.
As every smile is different and unique, having a consultation with RiverRock Dental is a great way to find the best course of action to fix a narrow smile by widening your smile and creating a broader arch. So, contact us today!
