Porcelain Veneers for Gaps
Many individuals have gaps and spaces in their smile. For some, this may only occur between the front two teeth, a condition referred to as diastema. In other cases, the jaw may be too large or the teeth may be too small, resulting in several spaces across the dental arch. No matter what the reason, many of our Kansas City, MO, patients want to correct this issue.
There are several treatments that can be considered for the treatment of gaps and spacing, including dental bonding and orthodontics. In some cases, however, porcelain veneers can offer remarkable results. Here, Dr. John Goodman discusses porcelain veneers for gaps and explains how the treatment process works.
Exploring Candidacy
Virtually anyone with gaps in their teeth can be considered for porcelain veneers. Mild to moderate spacing can easily be addressed with these custom prosthetics. However, large gaps may not be readily concealed by veneers, as the restorations would be too big and appear unnatural. Therefore, if you have significant spacing, Dr. Goodman may recommend traditional braces or Invisalign to correct the problem.
To qualify for any type of cosmetic treatment, candidates must be in good oral health. If tooth decay or gum disease is present, these issues must be addressed first. Otherwise, they could seriously hinder the results of your treatment. If restorative procedures are necessary, Dr. Goodman can complete those prior to porcelain veneer placement.
How Veneers for Spacing Work
Sometimes veneers are referred to as “instant orthodontics”. It is important to understand, however, that veneers do not actually move the teeth. They give the appearance of a straighter smile by making your teeth more uniform.
Before veneers can be placed, the front surfaces of the teeth must be prepared. This requires the removal of a thin layer of enamel, which will help the veneers bond to the teeth. Once this step is complete, impressions are taken and sent to a dental laboratory for the creation of your veneers.
Alternative Treatments for Gapped Teeth
Some patients may not qualify for porcelain veneers. If you have gaps between the teeth and would like to explore alternative treatments, you have a few options:
- Dental Bonding: Mild spacing can often be addressed by applying tooth-colored composite resin to the affected areas. Bonding usually only lasts about five to seven years, but the treatment is completely reversible, which is an attractive perk for some patients.
- Orthodontics: If you want to make permanent changes to your smile without veneers, orthodontics is the most viable option. Braces or Invisalign can straighten your smile in about 18 to 24 months, effectively closing gaps between the teeth.
- Snap On Smile: A popular option at our Kansas City practice is Snap On Smile. This removable appliance fits snugly over your natural teeth and transforms your smile in seconds.
Learn More about Treating Gapped Teeth
Are gaps or spaces in your smile affecting your self-esteem and confidence? Our Kansas City team can help you find a solution that will meet your unique needs. To learn more about porcelain veneers or any other treatment, contact us online or give us a call at (816) 842-8585.
