Why don’t my top teeth show when I smile? How can I fix this? (Photos)

Question

I had braces in middle school and Invisalign as an adult. My top teeth still don’t show unless I smile wide but it looks bad. Braces corrected an underbite and Invisalign just aligned the teeth since they often shift. When I had braces, 4 teeth were pulled out (2 top and 2 bottom). When I smile, my smile also pulls towards the left making it look crooked. I also experience TMJ symptoms often from clenching.

Prashant Nanda, MDS, FICOI · Answer

Its a little tough to answer this without an actual clinical examination and pictures with the lips retracted to assess the length of your teeth.
However, if there is a tooth length issue, porcelain veneers is a great way to increase the length. Alternately lip repositioning to increase the display of upper front teeth might also be a good option if tooth length is adequate.

Patric Cohen, DDS, FAGD · Answer

Judging from your smile, I would say using porcelain veneers would be your best solution on 8 teeth to give you the smile that you've dreamed about.

Michael D. Kosdon, DDS · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for the question and details explaining the situation. 
Your question brings up a few good areas to address. Has your smile always pulled more on one side, or has that developed over time? Also, your TMJ issues need to be looked into and your bite should be checked to see if everything is balanced from the orthodontic work. 
It looks as if your teeth have been stripped in between, most likely during the Invisalign. This makes the teeth look more square and unnatural. That being said, it makes you and excellent candidate for porcelain veneers. With veneers, you can conservatively lengthen, whiten, and balance the symmetry of your teeth. Based on the pictured you attached, I would recommend a minimum of 6-8 veneers. 
Most important decision is to seek out an expert who has successfully treated cases similar to yours!

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:
It’s difficult to give you accurate advice without clinical exam.  However, the factors to consider are:
1.  Length of upper teeth
2.  Position of upper teeth:  too far back?
3.  Upper lip movement.
Best,
Dr. Maddahi

Thomas Connelly, DDS - Account Suspended · Answer

Based on the photos, porcelain veneers can add length to your upper teeth, improve shape and symmetry. I would recommend a consultation with a cosmetic dentist that has great photos and reviews.

Why don’t my top teeth show when I smile? How can I fix this? (Photos)

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Answer: Front teeth don’t show

Answer: Why don’t my top teeth show when I smile? How can I fix this? (Photos)

Answer: Why don’t my top teeth show when I smile? How can I fix this? (Photos)

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Why don’t my top teeth show when I smile? How can I fix this? (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Front teeth don’t show

Answer: Front teeth don’t show

Answer: Why don’t my top teeth show when I smile? How can I fix this? (Photos)

Answer: Why don’t my top teeth show when I smile? How can I fix this? (Photos)

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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.