Why Some People Hide Their Smiles
Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. Many people know this and fear smiling if they are not confident about their teeth. Below are some reasons and solutions for people who hide their smiles.
They Have Crooked Teeth
Some people have crooked teeth due to their genetics, dental trauma, tooth loss in childhood, or poor oral habits in childhood. The crookedness makes them self-conscious about their smiles. Fortunately, dentists have different treatments for crooked teeth.
Teeth-alignment treatments include the use of:
- Dental braces
- Clear aligners
- Palatal expanders
- Veneers
The treatment depends on several factors, such as the extent of the crookedness. An initial dental examination is necessary to chart the treatment path.
They Have Discolored Teeth
Teeth discoloration is another reason some people feel self-conscious about their smiles. Discolored foods and drinks (such as tea), tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, aging, and trauma are some of the things that discolor teeth. Again, teeth discoloration is manageable via several treatments such as dental bleaching, veneer treatments, and dental bonding.
They Have Recessed Gums
Gum recession means the margins of gum tissues wear or pull away, exposing the teeth roots. Gum recession makes teeth look longer than they are. Gum recession also creates uneven coloring since the teeth roots aren't the same color as the enamel. Things that increase the risk of gum recession include gum disease, aging, over-brushing, and tongue piercing.
Surgery is a common and effective gum recession treatment. The dentist takes some soft tissues from the mouth's roof to build up the missing gum tissues.
They Have Missing Teeth
Lastly, some people also don't smile because they don't have all of their teeth. Missing front teeth are especially problematic because the front teeth are the most visible. Causes of missing teeth include untreated dental diseases, such as periodontal disease, dental injuries, and congenital defects, among others.
Dentists have multiple options for missing teeth. Examples include dental bridges, implants, and dentures. The number and location of missing teeth determine the best replacement option. The condition of the remaining teeth, especially the adjacent ones, also matters. Lastly, the budget treatment budget also determines the possible options.
As you can see, you should not have to hide your smile because of how your teeth look. Consult a dentist such as Dan Czapek, D.M.D. about your problems and let them devise the best solution for your condition. Get the treatment, follow your dentist's advice, and maintain good oral hygiene afterward.
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