What to do about my narrow smile? (photos)

Question

Dear Doctor, Could you please advise me what to do about my narrow smile? I am emberassed to smile, laugh and talk.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

The narrow smile is best addressed in growing children with expansion appliances.  As an adult it is possible to do the SARPE procedure which is Rapid Palatal Expansion with a Surgical Assist.  This requies cutting the hard palate down the midle and the attatchments of the maxilla to the skull.The other adult alternative is Epigenetic Orthodontics with the DNA Appliance to grow the maxilla gradually.  The DNA Appliance is removable but needs to be worn 12-14 hours/day.  Ira L Shapira DDS, D,ABDSM, D,AAPM, FICCMOChair, Alliance of TMD Organizations.

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:There are two real options to explore.  The first option is orthodontic treatment to see how your upper arch can be widened to get a wider smile.  The main draw back to this option is length of treatment might be anywhere form 24-36 months and since you are no longer 11-14 years of age the amount of widening of the arch is more limited.  The main advantage of this option is your teeth are not touched and you get to keep your natural teeth.The second option is to do veneers to widen the arch by thickening outside of your teeth by placing veneers..  This option has to be explored by a expert cosmetic dentist that know anti-aging dentistry concepts and is first tried on a model before any work is done in your mouth.  The main advantage of this option is that it can be done fairly rapidly and the main disadvantage is that your teeth are somewhat shaved down.  Best of luck!

Vicki Borowski, DDS · Answer

Orthodontics are definitely an option. So are Lunimeers or no prep veneers. You have very full lips so creating more width in your smile  would be a nice enhancement. I suggest having a consultation with a dentist who has experience in cosmetic dentistry they can give you all of your option.

German Arzate, DDS - Account Suspended · Answer

there are 2 solutions to be done that can get you have a great result, the fort one is braces for at least 1 year, with the appliances, and the second one is you are not in the mood for braces for 1 year at least, there is an option with veneers, you can definitely change the way you your teeth look, you will be able to change shape , size and even color.

What to do about my narrow smile? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Braces or makeover

Answer: Braces or makeover

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Everything you need to know about Smile Makeover

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

What to do about my narrow smile? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Braces or makeover

Answer: Braces or makeover

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smile Makeover

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.