Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Reading time: four minutes.
Snaggletooth, misaligned canine, “eye tooth”—whatever you call it, that tooth can throw off your whole smile.
If you love your smile but could do without the snaggletooth, there are several effective solutions to consider.
In this blog, we will explore four treatment options that can help fix a snaggletooth and give you the smile you desire.
Table of Contents
- What is a Snaggletooth?
- Treatment Option 1: Dental Bonding
- Treatment Option 2: Clear Aligners
- Treatment Option 3: Veneers
- Treatment Option 4: Extraction Followed by a Dental Implant
- Factors to Consider When Choosing a Treatment
- Your Perfect Smile Solution at Clearwater Dentistry in Greeley
Key Takeaway
If you are looking to fix a snaggletooth, four effective treatments to consider are dental bonding, clear aligners, veneers, and extraction with a dental implant. Each option offers unique benefits, allowing you to find the best fit for a balanced, beautiful smile.
What is a Snaggletooth?
A snaggletooth, commonly referred to as a single tooth that is misaligned or overlaps adjacent teeth, can occur due to various factors.
- Genetics: A narrow mouth or an extra-large tooth can disrupt the space for tooth eruption.
- Overcrowded teeth: When teeth do not have enough room to grow, they can overlap, and become crooked or misaligned.
- Irregular eruption of teeth: Baby teeth may not fall out in a timely manner, leading to the odd tooth in the wrong position.
This unique feature can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and general wear on your other teeth.
Treatment Option 1: Dental Bonding
If you have a minor misalignment, dental bonding can be an affordable, quick fix.
How it works
Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the surface of your tooth. The resin is shaped to create a more aligned look and hardened under ultraviolet light, making it durable and natural-looking.
Best for
This option works well if your snaggletooth has a small overlap. It is often used for cosmetic fixes rather than comprehensive realignment.
Advantages
- Minimal time commitment with a single visit
- Budget-friendly alternative to other treatments
- Gives you the chance to improve your smile without braces
Treatment Option 2: Clear Aligners
Orthodontic treatment with clear aligners offer a nearly invisible and effective treatment to gradually align your teeth.
How it works
Clear aligners are custom-made trays that fit snugly over your teeth. Just like braces, they apply gentle pressure to move your teeth in place. Over several months your teeth will move toward their ideal positions.
Best for
Clear aligners are suitable for mild to moderate alignment issues, especially when more than one tooth is out of place. They work well if your goal is a complete smile transformation.
Advantages
- Removable for eating and cleaning
- Transparent material makes it hard to notice
- Shorter time frame than traditional braces for mild issues
Treatment Option 3: Veneers
Veneers offer a quick cosmetic solution for those wanting to correct their smile in a short period.
How it works
Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells made from porcelain or composite resin. They are bonded to the front of your tooth and look and feel just like your natural teeth.
Best for
This option is best if you have a single tooth that is slightly crooked, jagged, or oddly shaped. Veneers are not for extensive realignment but rather to achieve a visually pleasing, balanced smile.
Advantages
- Immediate results after one or two appointments
- High resistance to staining
- Durable option that can last 10–15 years with proper care
Treatment Option 4: Extraction Followed by a Dental Implant
In severe cases, extraction followed by a dental implant can provide a permanent solution to severe misalignment.
How It Works
If the snaggletooth causes significant issues, your dentist may recommend removing it and replacing it with a dental implant. An implant fills the space perfectly and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Best for
Extraction is typically reserved for extreme cases where the misalignment impacts your oral health, such as causing overcrowded teeth, gum disease, or severe bite issues.
Advantages
- Permanent solution with minimal maintenance
- Protects your other teeth and gums from potential issues
- Provides a natural look and feel, just like regular teeth
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Treatment
When deciding on the best treatment option, consider these factors:
- Severity of misalignment: Minor misalignments can be fixed with bonding or veneers, while severe cases may need orthodontic treatment or extraction.
- Budget: Bonding and veneers are often more budget-friendly than clear aligners or implants.
- Time commitment: Some methods, like veneers, offer immediate results, while clear aligners and implants require a longer treatment time.
- Oral health goals: For those looking to correct more than just a single tooth, orthodontic treatment may provide the most comprehensive results.
At Clearwater Dentistry, our team is skilled in each of these treatments, allowing us to customize a plan for you based on your needs and preferences.
Your Perfect Smile Solution at Clearwater Dentistry in Greeley
With several effective options, transforming misaligned teeth into a smooth, balanced smile has never been easier. For expert care and guidance on the best treatment for you, reach out to us in Greeley, CO!
To book an appointment at our dental office, call (970) 515-3550 or complete the online inquiry form! Let us help you transform your smile into one you are proud to share with the world.
