Is it possible to have your front two teeth filed down. Is it pain full and can you have this done under 16?

Question

I have long front teeth 'Bugs Bunny, buttooth, etc. (not sticking out) just long. They really make me self consious about myself, also like singing, but I feel really embarrassed and stupid. Is there a way they can be filed down, is it pain full, can you have it done under the age of 16 (Im 14) and is it expensive? Any answers would be very appreciated.

Answer 1

It can be done, but it is a very permanent procedure and there is no going back once it is done. There is also a limit to how much can come off before other problems will emerge.



Most dentists will do it for very little cost. But you are a NHS patient and your dentistry is currently free.

The NHS will only keep you dentally fit and your dentist cannot do frilly bits like this on the NHS.



You are also still a minor and your growth is not complete so they may decline on grounds of consent and asking you to complete your growth first.

Answer 2

What you are describing comes under "cosmetic contouring" and dumbledum's answer pretty much covers the concerns that a dentist would have on a clinical and ethical level. I would add that the procedure is painless, quick and in the scheme of things cheap as there are no materials and it generally doesn't take very long - most Dentists quote based on time required. The impact of contouring can instantly have very pleasing and profound effect to the appearance with minimal tooth structure loss but as it has been explained to you, there is a limit as to how much structure can be removed.

Talk it through with your Dentist and parents, it might be that a minimal alteration that reduces the discrepancy in length without totally fixing the problem is a compromise that fits for all parties when thinking about your current age and dental development.

Good luck

Answer 3

Yes it is possible and should not be painful. In UK as you are under 16 it should be free on NHS.



It is not stupid at all. Teeth are so precious.