Is A Single Crooked Tooth Ruining Your Smile?
Sometimes, just one individual tooth can spoil what would otherwise be an attractive smile. Here’s how to fix it.
Most of us probably have something about our smile that we don’t like and would change if we could. While sometimes it might be that we have a few crooked teeth, or perhaps gaps between the teeth, it might also be something more specific such as one single tooth that is causing problems that affect our smile.
One common issue is when we have a single tooth that is crooked or protrudes a little. It may not bother us from a practical point of view, but we know that others notice it when we smile, at least partially because we also notice it ourselves when we smile in the mirror.
It might seem to us a little ridiculous to be concerned about just one tooth, but we also know for sure, how much better we would feel about our smile if it could be straightened and blend in with the rest of our teeth. So, how can our Wickford cosmetic dentists help you achieve this?
Orthodontics
Traditionally, if a tooth needs straightening, using orthodontics is the most obvious way of doing this. This, though, can prove to be a barrier for some of our Wickford patients who might believe that this means wearing a metal brace for a long period of time. If we are worried about people noticing a crooked tooth, you can be sure they would notice a metal brace! This need no longer be the case though.
Modern orthodontics now often use tooth coloured materials, or transparent ones such as is used in the trays that make up a part of the Invisalign method. It is likely though, that this wouldn’t be the most appropriate way to straighten an individual tooth, unless other teeth also need straightening or if there is another specific reason.
A faster straight smile
It should be said that while the following suggestion is likely to be a good option, this is not always the case and you will need to have the problematic tooth examined at the Cygnet Dental Practice before a decision can be taken.
‘Social Six’ teeth straightening
While Invisalign is an excellent tooth straightening solution; straightening one or two in the visible area that people see when they smile, often referred to as the ‘social six’, can often be done more quickly than would be the case with Invisalign. There are a number of different methods that still use a wire and bracket approach but do so using finer and more discreet materials. These don’t have the convenience of wearing Invisalign trays but it does mean that the tooth can be straightened more quickly.
Again, we would need to see the tooth to be able to give an estimated time frame for the treatment to work, but in some cases, it could just be a few weeks. It really does depend on a number of factors. The only way to find out is to have the tooth looked at.
Cosmetic bonding
If it is simply appearance that matters, rather than anything practical, the use of cosmetic bonding might be another good option. This involves adding composite resin to the tooth to reshape it so that it fits in more naturally with the other teeth. It is worth noting though that bonding is less stain resistant than tooth enamel and may need to be replaced later as it becomes darker than the rest of the tooth. Cosmetic bonding can sometimes also be used to close small gaps between the teeth as well; sometimes known as a diastema.
Dental veneers
As above, a dental veneer could potentially also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth, or teeth. One thing to consider though is that this is not a reversible treatment and the tooth will need to be shaped a little so that the veneer can be fitted. Some patients may wish to choose the bonding option initially to see how they feel with their new smile before opting for this more permanent solution.
Taking the first step
If you are not happy with your smile because of one crooked or gappy tooth, you might wonder if there is anything that can be done about it? Even the best articles on the internet can only offer minimal help as they can’t see the tooth in question. The best way to make a start is to see one of our Wickford dentists to discuss this. They will be able to examine the tooth and discuss the available options with you. Naturally, there is no obligation to go ahead if you feel that a recommended treatment is not for you. We can only advise, but the final choice is yours.
If you are curious to see how we can help you with any aspect of your smile, why not call us to discuss this? You can make an appointment for an initial consultation at the Cygnet Dental Practice by calling us today on 01268 733078.