Reverse Smile & Small Teeth

When evaluating where the maxillary incisal edges should be, dentists analyze the contour of the lower lip when smiling. An imaginary line around the incisal edges of the upper front teeth should follow the superior border of the lower lip. This is called the “smile line.” When the centrals appear shorter than the canines, it is referred to as the “reverse smile line.” This is unfavorable and can be corrected in many cases.

Before
After


Procedure: This patient did not like the shape, shade, or length of her teeth. She had a reverse smile line. We lengthened the upper front teeth, changed the shape, and widened the arch. Porcelain laminates (veneers) and crowns were used. The patient now has a beautiful, more feminine smile.

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[*] New York University (2004). How Dentists Decide What Constiutes a Beautiful Smile. http://www.nyu.edu/dental.


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