Why You Have “Long Teeth” and How to Fix Them

Have you noticed your teeth appear longer when you smile or look in the mirror? You are not alone. Gum recession, often perceived as “longer teeth,” is a common dental concern. 

Gum recession can develop gradually due to aging, aggressive brushing, periodontal disease, or even genetics. In some cases, the appearance of longer teeth may simply be cosmetic. While in others, it may signal an underlying oral health issue that requires attention.

The good news is that this condition is manageable and often reversible with today’s advancements in dental care. From gum grafting to minimally invasive procedures, modern dentistry provides practical solutions to restore the health and appearance of your smile. 

Let’s explore everything about long teeth, their causes, and possible treatment options.

What Does It Mean to Have Long Teeth?

Longer teeth appear because the length of the jaws and gums decreases. If there is bone loss in the jaw and the jaw contracts, which we call gum recession, the teeth will appear longer.

For example, you might notice your front teeth look long in pictures or when smiling. Dentists may refer to these as front teeth long or extended teeth when more of the crown becomes visible.

What Are the Common Causes of Longer Teeth?

Before discussing treatment options, it is important to understand what causes teeth to look longer. Here, we have described the reasons behind longer teeth.

• Gum Recession: The #1 Reason Your Teeth Look Longer

The most common reason for the appearance of longer teeth is gum recession. This condition occurs when the gum tissue pulls back from the tooth. It reveals more of the tooth structure or even its root. 

Gum recession can develop slowly and is often a sign of gum disease or overly aggressive brushing. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), 2 out of 5 individuals, mostly aged 30 and over in the U.S., show signs of gum disease, a major contributor to receding gums.

If untreated, gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, and tooth loss. It also gives the visual impression of long teeth and leads to a serious health concern.

• Genetics and Natural Tooth Shape

Some people are simply born with long front teeth. In such cases, the length of the tooth is not due to any disease or abnormality but rather a natural variation in tooth size and shape. 

If your family members also have visibly long teeth, genetics may play a role. However, even naturally long teeth can be reshaped or cosmetically treated if they affect your self-esteem or oral function.

• Teeth Grinding and Enamel Wear

Chronic teeth grinding can gradually wear down the enamel, especially on the molars. This may create an imbalance in the smile, causing the front teeth to appear longer or more extended. The illusion of longer teeth happens as the back teeth shorten.

Teeth grinding is often related to stress and may require mouthguards or other dental interventions to prevent further damage.

• Aging and Bone Loss

Aging naturally leads to bone density loss, including in the jaw. Gums may recede as the supporting bone shrinks. This creates the appearance of longer teeth, especially in older adults. 

Bone loss also weakens the support structure of your teeth, which makes it crucial to take care of your oral health at an early age.

4 Effective Treatment Options to Fix Long Teeth

Now that you know what causes long teeth, let’s explore the most effective treatment options that can help restore your dental health and beauty.

1. Gum Grafting for Gum Recession

Gum grafting is one of the most effective treatments for long teeth caused by gum recession. This procedure involves taking healthy tissue from another part of your mouth (often the palate) and grafting it to the affected area. It restores gum coverage and protects the tooth root.

This treatment is ideal for patients with sensitivity, root exposure, or aesthetic concerns. Proper care allows the graft to integrate seamlessly and improve appearance and function.

2. Gum Contouring or Reshaping

Gum contouring is another cosmetic procedure for patients with long front teeth or uneven gum lines. It reshapes the gums for a more balanced look. It is minimally invasive and is often performed using a laser to remove excess gum tissue.

This option suits those with naturally longer teeth or minor gum overgrowth and helps create a more symmetrical smile.

3. Dental Veneers or Crowns

If your extended teeth are due to natural shape or enamel wear, veneers or crowns may offer a cosmetic solution. Veneers are thin porcelain shells placed on the front surface of the teeth, while crowns cover the entire tooth.

These options can adjust size, color, and shape, enhancing the harmony of your smile. They are durable and stain-resistant and prove to be a long-term solution.

4. Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

In cases where gum recession results from periodontal disease, scaling and root planing are the first lines of defense. This deep cleaning removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline, helping the gums reattach to the tooth.

This treatment can slow or stop gum recession and prevent your teeth from becoming longer.

Looking for Leading Dental Care Services? Explore Double Take Dental

Double Take Dental, located in Orem, Utah, is your trusted partner in achieving and maintaining optimal oral health. Our clinic is built on the principles of comfort, trust, and excellence. 

Whether you are dealing with uneven teeth or gum issues or want to enhance your smile with cosmetic dentistry, our experienced team provides state-of-the-art treatments tailored to your needs.

From general check-ups to complex procedures, we focus on giving you results that last, with comfort. Contact us today, and let us help you regain confidence in your smile.

Recap

Long teeth are often a sign of gum recession. They are caused by many factors, including genetics, periodontal disease, aging, and even habits like teeth grinding or aggressive brushing. As gums recede or wear down over time, more of the tooth structure becomes visible, giving the teeth a longer look.

Fortunately, effective treatments exist to restore the balance of your teeth and enhance their appearance. For those looking to address gum recession and improve their smile, Double Take Dental is a top recommendation, offering expert care and personalized solutions.