Why Do My Teeth Look Longer Than They Used To?

 Any time you notice something off about your smile, it can instantly set off alarm bells and leave you wondering if your oral health is in jeopardy. If you’ve looked in the mirror recently and noticed that your pearly whites seem to have grown longer, don’t panic. This subtle change, often accompanied with aging, is actually quite common.

At Family Dental Group, our empathetic team of dental professionals is dedicated to demystifying any concerns you have about your smile. We're committed to guiding you through understanding why your teeth might seem longer and exploring effective solutions with a gentle, reassuring approach.

Let’s get started! 

Receding gums and longer-looking teeth

The first thing you need to know about longer-looking teeth is that your teeth aren’t actually growing. In fact, one of the primary reasons your teeth may appear longer is receding gums. This gradual process exposes more of your tooth’s surface, making your teeth look longer than before. Here’s what you need to know about how this happens in the first place: 

Poor oral hygiene

Are you taking good care of your smile? Unfortunately, inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can irritate your gums and cause them to recede over time. 

Gum disease 

Gingivitis and periodontitis are two of the most common types of gum disease that can result if gum recession is left untreated. These conditions cause inflammation and damage to your gums, which can lead to recession and potential tooth loss.

Aging  

As you age, your gums naturally recede, exposing more of your tooth’s surface. While this is an inevitable part of the aging process for all of us, you can help slow it down by maintaining good oral hygiene.

Aggressive tooth brushing 

The next reason for longer-looking teeth might come as a surprise. Yes, believe it or not, brushing your teeth too hard can also contribute to gum recession and longer-looking teeth. 

If you use a hard-bristled toothbrush or apply excessive pressure while brushing, you might be wearing away your gum tissues and causing it to recede. Try opting for a soft-bristled toothbrush instead and use gentle, circular motions when brushing your teeth. 

What can you do? 

If you’re concerned about the appearance of your teeth and worried that they may be getting longer, there are several steps you can take to address the issue. Here’s what we recommend: 

Practice good oral hygiene 

Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can help prevent gum disease. Just remember to use a soft-bristled brush and brush gently to avoid irritating or receding your gums. 

Visit our office

When in doubt, schedule regular dental checkups with us to monitor the health of your gums and teeth. We can identify signs of gum recession early on and recommend the right treatment options for your smile. 

Consider gum grafting

If your gum recession case is severe, we may recommend gum grafting surgery to cover your exposed tooth roots and restore a more natural gum line. 

In the end, we want you to understand that noticing your teeth appear longer isn't a cause for alarm — and you're certainly not alone in this. Whether it's through adopting improved oral hygiene habits, tackling any underlying dental concerns, or seeking expert advice, we're here to support you in achieving and maintaining a healthy smile you'll love to share. 

If you’re ready to learn more and browse your options, schedule an appointment with Family Dental Group online at our Gardner, Northborough, or Paxton, Massachusetts, office at the earliest opportunity!