Front teeth too big - can a dentist reshape them or would veneers be the solution? (Photo)

Question

Hi, short background: I have had braces a long time ago (15 y ago). And then due to discoloration of one of the two front teeth, it was replaced by a porcelain tooth. I feel like my front teeth are too big in a way that it is not esthetically pleasing for me. Additionally I can’t close my mouth fully because of them. What can be done to make them smaller, would I need to replace all front teeth or can reshaping be done? All suggestions welcome. Please see photo.

Andy Shieh, DMD · Answer

Since you’ve already have porcelain crowns on your front teeth, you can not place a veneer on those teeth because those teeth were already contoured and shaven down. A new crown will need to be used to replace an old crown. New crowns can be shorter to get you that more desirable smile design.

Vincent Ip, DDS, FAGD · Answer

You already have a beautiful smile but I see what you mean about the teeth seeming too large for your mouth/face. Since your teeth already look pretty straight - I would suggest 6 minimal prep veneers on the upper arch. A well-versed cosmetic dentist will use something called the "golden proportions" to get the teeth perfectly sized and shaped for your face and smile. I hope this helps. Good luck with you journey!

Front teeth too big - can a dentist reshape them or would veneers be the solution? (Photo)

Answers (2)