I am at my wit’s end. I really want to do something about my smile, but everything I read about smile makeovers talks about making teeth bigger. My problem is my two front teeth are too big. Plus, they stick out from the rest of my teeth. I look like a beaver in need of braces. I’m about to think my only option left is to have the teeth extracted and get dental implants that are the look of teeth I want?

Avery

Dear Avery,

I’m glad you wrote before going forward with your plan to remove your front teeth. There are much better solutions than that. Bear in mind that I haven’t actually examined you and am just going from your description. There may be other mitigating issues I’m unaware of. However, let’s discuss things as if they’re pretty straight forward.

First, you will want an experienced cosmetic dentist. So make sure you check out smile galleries to see what type of results they get with their work. Second, there are ways to trim your teeth to remove the excess structure. Then, you can use Invisalign to get them into their proper position.

Invisalign is ideal for adults because they are invisible to those around you, even at a conversational distance. Additionally, they have a hidden benefit. The aligners used to straighten your teeth are custom made. This also allows them to double as teeth whitening trays, enabling you to straighten and whiten your teeth at the same time. It’s like getting a mini smile makeover.

I don’t know exactly what your teeth look like, so I want to give you a warning. If a lot of tooth structure has to be removed, you may find the dentin becomes exposed. If that is the case, you will want to have porcelain veneers placed over the dentin to protect them.

This blog is brought to you by East Cobb Dentist Dr. Cristi Cheek.