Can You Fix Short Teeth Without Major Drilling? Here’s How We Do It

Fixing short teeth doesn’t have to mean invasive procedures or drastic changes. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and felt like your smile could use a little more balance or length, you’re not alone. Many people deal with teeth that are naturally smaller or appear too short due to wear, genetics, or developmental conditions like peg laterals. The good news? There are ways to address this that are conservative, efficient, and deliver beautiful, long-lasting results.

At our Houston practice, Dr. Ned Shimizu — a rare Accredited Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD) — brings both scientific precision and artistic expertise to every dental procedure. He is one of only three dentists in Texas and just 85 in the world with this distinction. With a background in prosthodontics, formal training from Loma Linda University, and a passion for photography, Dr. Shimizu blends technical skill and creative vision to reshape short teeth with incredible results.

What Are the Causes of Short or Small Teeth?

There are several reasons why your teeth may appear too short or undersized. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Genetics: Conditions like peg lateral incisors can leave you with teeth that are narrower and shorter than average.
• Tooth Wear: Over time, grinding, acidic erosion, or aging can shorten your teeth.
• Developmental Conditions: Sometimes, teeth don’t fully develop in proportion to the face, creating an aesthetic imbalance.

Whatever the reason, improving the length and proportion of your teeth can create a more harmonious smile.

How Minimal or No-Prep Veneers Work for Short Teeth

Veneers offer a way to lengthen and reshape teeth without extensive drilling. In many cases, especially when treating small or peg-shaped teeth, no-prep or minimal-prep veneers are ideal.

These ultra-thin porcelain shells are bonded directly to the front of your natural teeth to enhance size, shape, and symmetry — often without removing any enamel. That means no pain, no shots, and no structural damage to your natural teeth.

When Fewer Veneers Can Still Make a Big Impact

Not every patient needs a full smile makeover to see dramatic results. We have successfully treated many patients with just four veneers, especially those with good color and alignment in their canines and premolars. Here’s when a conservative plan may be right:

• You’re happy with the overall color of your natural teeth.
• Your canines and bicuspids have a good shape and position.
• You want to enhance proportion and whiten your center teeth subtly.

When done right, even a limited number of veneers can create visual balance and improve your smile’s overall symmetry.

Let’s Design Your Smile — No Drill Required

Interested in a natural, conservative way to fix short or small teeth? Contact Cosmetic Dentistry, led by Dr. Ned Shimizu, in Houston, TX, at (281) 531-0710 to schedule your consultation.