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Pacifier teeth (also known as dummy teeth) are a common issue that occurs when a pacifier or dummy is used for too long, causing the teeth to grow irregularly. For some, the issue will worsen in adulthood, with their secondary teeth coming in, but the current teeth stunt the progression of them pushing through. Pacifier teeth typically have a gap between the front teeth, with the front teeth forming in the shape of an arch. This can leave you embarrassed of your smile, and looking for ways to fix this, creating your dream smile.
To help you, we have seven dental treatments you can consider that will help you to rectify your pacifier teeth.
How to fix pacifier teeth
Fixing pacifier teeth can be addressed with either minor or major cosmetic dentistry. For those with severe cases, their only option might be veneers or crowns, but those with minor issues might be able to treat the issue with braces. Below, we have detailed the seven methods you can choose from to address your pacifier teeth.
1- Dental bonding
If you only have minor issues with your pacifier teeth, dental binding can be used to address the issue. Composite resin can be used to lengthen your teeth before they are cured and filed into the correct shape. The resin is polished to match the texture of your other teeth, blending them in with your smile.
The biggest advantage of dental bonding is that the procedure is reversible. If your teeth settle and fix themselves, the bonding can be removed, and your natural teeth will be left damage-free. The bonding will need to be replaced every few years if this does not happen, though.
2- Dental crowns
Dental crowns are a good alternative for anyone who doesn’t want to replace all of their teeth. Dental crowns can be added to only the affected teeth, transforming your smile. Your dentist will usually remove some of the affected teeth before placing a dental crown over it and bonding it into place. When the tooth needs to be removed, a dental implant might be used instead. Dental crowns can last for around fifteen years and can be expensive, so it’s worth considering your budget before moving forward.
3- Dental implants
Sometimes, when a pacifier damages a tooth, removing it and replacing it with a dental implant can be best. Typically, this is recommended when only the front teeth are affected, as you can have brand-new teeth in just a few months.
Dental implants require a lot of work, where your tooth is removed, and a screw is placed where the tooth used to be. You will then wait a few months for the screw to fuse with the jawbone, replicating tooth roots to create a secure fit. When the screw is fused, a crown is placed over the implant, transforming your smile.
While you wait for your screw to fuse with your jaw, your dentist will add temporary teeth to the space, so you won’t have to worry about gaps in your smile.
4- Invisalign
Invisalign uses clear aligners that are worn for 22 hours a day, adding gentle pressure to your teeth that helps them move into their desired position. They can’t help guide the teeth out from beneath your gums, but they can help to realign your current teeth to improve your self-confidence.
5- Traditional braces
Traditional braces are a good way to address pacifier teeth, applying pressure to your teeth to move them into their desired position. Traditional braces can be a less invasive option and will correct your misalignment. They can even help teeth reach their correct length.
The downside to traditional braces is that they are noticeable. For many adults, it can impact their self-confidence, especially as the braces will need to be worn for years. However, they can be a good option if you don’t want any surgery.
6- Aesthetic brace alternatives
If traditional braces aren’t the right option for you, you can choose lingual braces or ceramic braces, which aren’t as noticeable but allow you to see the same results.
Lingual braces are the same as metal braces, but they are bonded to the back of your teeth instead of the front. This design makes the braces virtually invisible, allowing you to talk and smile without worrying about the braces being visible. In some cases, lingual braces won’t be suitable, like if you have short teeth where there isn’t enough space to secure the bracket.
Ceramic braces are made from tooth-coloured ceramic instead of metal, allowing them to blend in with your teeth better than metal braces. They are less visible, but they can be more fragile than metal braces. You might need to visit your dentist more frequently for repairs.
7- Veneers
Veneers tend to be a popular choice for adults with pacifier teeth. Veneers offer instant results, and you can walk out of the treatment room with a new smile. Veneers involve adding thin shells to the top of your teeth, straightening them and creating a uniform smile. You can choose from composite resin or porcelain veneers, which we can colour-match to create a seamless smile.
Veneers can last for decades, offering a permanent solution. Your natural teeth do need to be filed for the shells to be attached, which means you will always need veneers over your natural teeth. For many patients, this is a worthy compromise to enjoy a new smile.
Address your pacifier teeth today.
With many options to address your pacifier teeth, you can find an option that will suit your needs and budget. Don’t forget to consult a dentist in Melbourne to see which option is right for you and what your new smile could look like.
