Welcome to Artsmiles Clinic, where your oral health and well-being are our top priorities. In this article, we will delve into the topic of shorter teeth, shedding light on its signs, causes, and the range of effective treatment options available to restore your smile and ensure your overall oral health.

Shorter Teeth: Unveiling the Signs

Short teeth, also known as tooth wear, refers to the gradual loss of tooth structure over time. This can manifest in various ways, each carrying distinct signs that indicate the presence of this condition. Some common signs of tooth wearing include:

• Shortened Teeth: Teeth appear shorter than usual due to the erosion of their biting surfaces.
• Sensitivity: Increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, as the protective enamel wears away.
• Chips and Cracks: Fractures, chips, or cracks on the tooth surfaces due to weakening enamel.
• Changes in Tooth Shape: Teeth may lose their natural contours, affecting their appearance.
• Uneven Biting Surface: Irregular surfaces on teeth, leading to an imbalanced bite.
• Yellowing or Discoloration: The exposure of dentin beneath the enamel can cause teeth to appear more yellow or discolored.

Causes of Shorter Teeth

Understanding the causes why your teeth are getting shorter is essential in preventing its progression. Several factors contribute to this condition:

• Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Clenching or grinding teeth, often unconsciously, can wear down tooth surfaces.
• Acid Erosion: Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages can weaken enamel.
• Abrasive Toothbrushing: Brushing teeth with excessive force or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can erode enamel.
• Age: Natural wear and tear on teeth over time can lead to worn dentition.
• Poor Bite Alignment: Malocclusion or misaligned teeth can cause uneven wear patterns.
• Certain Medical Conditions: Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can expose teeth to stomach acid, leading to erosion.

Treatment Options for Shorter Teeth

At Artsmiles Clinic, we offer a range of effective treatment options tailored to your unique needs:

• Dental Bonding: Applying tooth-colored resin to affected areas restores tooth structure and appearance.
• Porcelain Veneers: Thin porcelain shells are custom-made to cover the front surfaces of worn teeth, providing strength and aesthetics.
• Dental Crowns: For severely worn teeth, crowns can restore their shape, function, and appearance.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Correcting misaligned teeth can alleviate uneven wear and restore a balanced bite.
• Nightguards: Custom-made appliances worn at night protect teeth from the effects of bruxism.
• Behavioral Changes: Modifying habits like teeth grinding or consuming acidic foods can prevent further wear.

Below you can see a case of short teeth caused by grinding executed by Dr Cristian Dunker.

Maintaining a Healthy Smile

Preventing further tooth wear is crucial to maintaining a healthy smile. Artsmiles Clinic recommends:

• Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques.
• Limiting consumption of acidic foods and beverages.
• Wearing a custom nightguard if bruxism is detected.
• Regular dental check-ups to monitor your oral health.

Conclusion

Short teeth are a sign of underlying dental problems, and it is a treatable condition. Artsmiles Clinic is here to guide you on your journey to a restored smile and optimal oral health. If you’ve noticed signs of teeth wearing or would like to discuss preventive measures, contact us at 07 5588-3677 to schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to preserve the beauty and function of your smile for years to come.