What does “Microdontia” mean?
Microdontia is a condition in which the teeth develop smaller than the usual size. Differences in size or shape may be particularly noticeable in the lateral incisors beside the upper central incisors.
Distinguish why it looks small
A tooth may be small in itself or may look small relative to the jaw and adjacent teeth. Excess gum coverage or shortening due to wear can also make a tooth appear small, so visible size alone does not establish microdontia.
Just because a tooth is small doesn't mean it needs to be treated. Consider whether it affects chewing, pronunciation, or alignment, and how uncomfortable you feel about your appearance.
When complementing the form
You can add necessary parts with resin or supplement the shape with veneer. If the space between teeth is imbalanced on the left and right, we can review a plan to distribute the space through orthodontic treatment.
Length, thickness, the gum margin, and bite matter as much as a width that suits the adjacent teeth. The goal is a proportion and shape that are easy to care for, rather than size alone.
How much natural tooth tissue can be preserved?
If you have room to add material, you can look at reducing tooth preparation. However, because the position, color, and surface condition of the teeth are different, no-prep treatment is not possible in all cases, even for small teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every tooth that looks small have microdontia?
Teeth that are heavily covered by gums or that are worn down may also appear smaller. Distinguish between the size of the tooth itself, its exposed length, and its relationship with surrounding teeth.
Can small teeth be enlarged with resin alone?
This is possible depending on the location, available space, and desired size and bite. We compare whether the space needs to be adjusted first and which materials and ranges are suitable.
Does it need treatment just because it is small?
If there are no problems with function and management, and you are not uncomfortable, your treatment needs may be different. Determine your goal by looking at the impact on appearance, space, and chewing function.
3 things to check before a consultation for microdontia
Please review the questions to ask before deciding on treatment and the treatment standards of TU Dental Clinic.
- A choice suited to your condition
Can you distinguish between actual size and gum exposure/wear?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic evaluates the size, shape, location, and surrounding space of the tooth itself. Compare treatment options depending on the reason your teeth appear small.
Small front teeth: Choosing by size, shape, and location - Preservation of natural teeth
Does the clinic compare the range of resins, orthodontic treatment, and veneers?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic distinguishes between cases where the shape is supplemented with resin or veneers and cases where the space is adjusted through orthodontic treatment, and also compares the extent of tooth reduction.
Small front teeth: Choosing by size, shape, and location - Sufficient understanding
Does the clinic discuss in advance the width and length that harmonize with the adjacent teeth?
TU Dental Clinic’s treatment standardsTU Dental Clinic explains the difference between treatment that changes size and shape and treatment that changes location and space. We also look at the relationship with the adjacent teeth.
Small front teeth: Choosing by size, shape, and location
