When the teeth next to your two front teeth are smaller, abnormally shaped, and often pointed or peg-like
• Genetic Factors: Peg laterals are usually hereditary.
• Prevalence: affects a small percentage of the population, with some studies suggesting it occurs in about 1-2% of people.
• Aesthetics: Peg laterals can affect the appearance of your smile, which might impact self-esteem and confidence.
• Function: While they don’t usually cause functional problems, their shape can sometimes lead to issues with spacing and alignment of other teeth.
Treatment Options
• Dental Bonding: A common and minimally invasive treatment involves using composite resin to build up the tooth to better match the rest of your smile.
• Veneers: can be placed over the peg lateral to improve its appearance and make it match the surrounding teeth.
• Crowns: might be recommended if the peg lateral needs significant alteration or if additional strength is required.
• Orthodontics: might be necessary to correct spacing and alignment issues
If you or your child have peg laterals, consult with a dental professional to explore the best treatment options for achieving a healthy, beautiful smile.