Some people embrace a gap between their teeth, but for others, it makes them self-conscious and hesitant to smile. While some spaces are a natural part of a person’s smile, others may make you want to explore cosmetic dental treatment. One option your dentist may discuss is veneers.
So, can veneers fix that unwanted gap in your smile? In many cases, you bet! However, whether veneers are the best solution depends on a few factors like the size and cause of the gap, your oral health, and your overall smile goals.
How Can Veneers Close Gaps?
Veneers are thin shells of tooth-colored material that are bonded to the front surfaces of teeth. During treatment, your dentist can design the prosthesis to slightly increase the natural width of certain teeth, helping close small spaces between them.
For example, if you have a small gap between your two front teeth, veneers can sometimes be shaped to create a more continuous-looking smile. Your dentist will carefully consider the size, shape, and proportions of your teeth to create a balanced result.
One of the biggest advantages of veneers is that they can address other cosmetic concerns at the same time, such as discoloration, minor chips, or irregular tooth shapes. Let’s say your front tooth is not only too far apart from its neighbor, but it’s also chipped. Your dentist places a veneer and voila! Two birds gone with one stone.
Veneers Aren’t Right for Every Gap
While veneers can be an excellent cosmetic option for some patients, they aren’t necessarily the best solution for every space between teeth.
Larger gaps may require orthodontic treatment, such as traditional braces or clear aligners, to move the teeth into a healthier position. A gap can also develop because of missing teeth, gum disease, an abnormal bite, or other oral health concerns. These underlying issues should be evaluated before pursuing cosmetic treatment. Your dentist can determine what is causing the gap and explain which options are appropriate.
What If You Have Gum Disease?
Healthy teeth and gums are an important foundation for cosmetic dentistry. If you have active gum disease, your dentist may recommend treating it before placing veneers.
Gum disease can cause the gums to recede and teeth to shift, potentially changing the appearance of your smile. Addressing the underlying problem first can help protect your oral health and improve the long-term success of cosmetic treatment.
Are Veneers Permanent?
Veneers are considered a long-term cosmetic treatment, but they aren’t indestructible or guaranteed to last forever. Depending on the type of veneer and your oral habits, they may eventually need to be repaired or replaced. With proper maintenance and care, porcelain veneers average about 15 to 18 years of service.
Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental visits, and avoiding habits like chewing ice or biting hard objects are all good bets for making your investment last as long as possible.
If you’re unhappy with a gap between your teeth, veneers may provide a way to create a more even-looking smile, but they’re only one of several possible treatments. Schedule a consultation with your cosmetic dentist to discuss your options and see what’s right for you.
About the Author
If you’re looking for a qualified, experienced dentist in Las Vegas for veneer treatment, Dr. M. Maxwell Hejazi has been at it for more than 30 years. He is a graduate of the Washington University School of Dental Medicine and the only Fellow of the American Academy of Oral Medicine in all of Nevada. Dr. Hejazi and his team invite you to Advent Dental where we’re changing smiles and lives every day. For a consultation regarding veneers or other cosmetic treatment, schedule online or call (702) 804-0153.