How Can I Broaden my Smile? (photo)

Question

Hello I really want to broaden my smile, I feel like my smile is so narrow and small. My front teeth seem to be protruding and I am looking to go to an orthodontist, but I'm not too keen on the idea of braces...would there be any other appliance that could work? Like a palatal expander? Retainer? Invisalign? The photo attached is of my teeth. Thank you for your help

Robert Waxler, DMD, MS · Answer

A major question is: how old are you?  expansion of the upper arch can be done up until adulthood as the upper jaw is two bones and can be widened.  Any expansion of the arches after that is either with surgery or by expanding the teeth, not the underlying bone structure...a very unstable correction that requires perpetual nighttime retention (did I say forever?...yes!)

	Make sure you find an experienced orthodontist to answer your questions...and decide what needs to be done before you decide what type of appliance to use

Michael Firouzian, DDS · Answer

Based on your photo, I would recommend widening the arch(es) first since you have some crowding of your front teeth that would also benefit from arch widening.  I'm guessing you probably have crowding and a narrow lower arch as well.  After this stage, you can decide if you still need or want cosmetic dentistry to further enhance your smile.

Jay Neuhaus, DDS · Answer

Another possibility for you, other than orthodontics, would be Porcelain Veneers on 8 or 10 of your upper teeth, having the bicuspid veneers coming out into your "buccal corridor". A good cosmetic dentist would be able to make all the teeth in the correct proportions, and would provide you with the broader smile desired. All in only 2 or 3 visits!

How Can I Broaden my Smile? (photo)

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How Can I Broaden my Smile? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Invisalign

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