Porcelain Veneers for Dental Gaps
Many people suffer from dental gaps, or larger than normal spaces between the teeth. Dental gaps often exist between the upper middle teeth, which makes them impossible to hide when talking, laughing, or eating. Although gapped teeth do not usually pose a threat to oral health or functions, they can detract from the beauty of the smile.
Porcelain veneers are an effective cosmetic dentistry treatment for gapped teeth. Porcelain veneers conceal gaps so that the smile appears uniform and attractive. Here, dentists from the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute, which serves Troy, Birmingham, and Bloomfield, MI, discuss porcelain veneers treatment, and how these restorations can be beneficial to individuals with dental gaps or other cosmetic flaws.
Can Porcelain Veneers Treat My Dental Gap?
In most cases porcelain veneers are an excellent treatment option for gapped teeth. Porcelain veneers do not physically shift the teeth to close dental gaps. Instead, porcelain veneers are bonded to the facial surface of the teeth to hide gaps and give the appearance of straight, uniform, and evenly spaced teeth.
The only instances where porcelain veneers may not be a good option for dental gaps is when gapped teeth are the result of advanced misalignment problems, or when gaps are especially large. Misalignment issues can interfere with oral functions, so they usually require orthodontic treatment, and porcelain veneers require the support of the natural teeth, so if gaps are too large they may not be appropriate. Our dentists can provide a consultation to determine if porcelain veneers are right for each patient.
The Treatment Process
Porcelain veneers treatment is generally spaced out over two dental appointments. The first appointment is all about preparation and planning. To prep the teeth for veneers placement we must remove a very thin layer of enamel. This creates space that allows the dental restorations to sit flush with adjacent teeth.
When the teeth have been reshaped we take impressions, which serve as a design mold to ensure the completed veneers will fit properly. Finally, we settle on design specifications, including the size, shape, and color of the veneers. This information is sent to a dental laboratory, where the veneers are fabricated. At the completion of this first appointment temporary veneers are placed.
When a patient’s permanent veneers are complete, they return to our office for their second and final appointment. At this time we test the fit of the veneers to ensure they are comfortable and secure. If minor adjustments need to be made we can do so in our office. Once we are satisfied with the fit of the veneers, we bond them to the front surface of the teeth with a special dental cement.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment due to their versatility and the wide range of benefits they provide, including:
- Fast treatment
- Durability
- Resistance to dental stains
- Realistic results
- Renewed confidence
Contact the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute
If gapped teeth are preventing you from fully enjoying your smile, you may be an ideal candidate for porcelain veneers. To learn more about this popular cosmetic dentistry treatment, contact our dental practice online, or call (248) 519-1919 and request an appointment.