Porcelain Veneers for Gapped Teeth
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that are adhered to the front of a tooth. When in place, the porcelain veneer masks various cosmetic imperfections from view. Thanks to the simplicity of how veneers work, they’re a versatile treatment option for many different kinds of aesthetic flaws that affect the smile, from stains and chips to minor gaps between teeth.
Dr. Nathaniel Podilsky has placed numerous porcelain veneers and helped patents throughout the Edmonton, AB area smile with renewed confidence. Let’s discuss how porcelain veneers can be used to close those unwanted gaps in your smile.
When Are Porcelain Veneers Used for Tooth Gaps?
Porcelain veneers are a great option for gaps between front teeth that are predominately cosmetic in nature. If a glaring gap between your front teeth throws off the aesthetics of your smile, porcelain veneers may be ideal for you and your needs.
Keep in mind that tooth gaps that are the result of malocclusion may be better treated through other means. A dentist can determine if that’s the case during the consultation process.
How Many Porcelain Veneers Will I Need?
The number of porcelain veneers required to address an unsightly tooth gap can vary. Usually two veneers are used to help reduce the prominence of the gap. Two veneers ensures the front teeth are even in size and symmetrical. If the gap is the result of uneven tooth size, however, one porcelain veneer may be sufficient. When you visit our Edmonton dental care center, we can discuss these matters in more detail.
The Porcelain Veneer Procedure
Placing porcelain veneers requires two dental visits roughly 10 days to two weeks apart.
During the first visit, the tooth or teeth receiving veneers must be prepped. That means removing just a little bit of the tooth enamel from the front of the tooth. This will allow the veneer to fit seamlessly only the tooth and appear natural. Impressions are taken once the tooth is prepped. These impressions are sent to a dental lab where the veneers are custom crafted for fit and color. Patients will wear temporary veneers in the meantime.
During the second dental visit, the temporary veneers are removed. The dentist checks the finished veneers for fit before finally securing them in position.
The Results of Getting Porcelain Veneers
With porcelain veneers in place, patients will experience an excellent, fully restored smile. Since porcelain veneers are semi-translucent, they’ll blend in seamlessly with the existing tooth structure as well as your natural teeth. Up close or from a distance, in natural light or artificial light, no one will be able to tell that you have porcelain veneers in place.
What If My Gap Cannot Be Corrected with Veneers?
If porcelain veneers are a poor option for treating your tooth gap, a dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment or perhaps the use of a dental crown. The ideal method of addressing the issue will depend on the size of the gap and its location in your smile.
Learn More About Treating Tooth Gaps
If you live in the Edmonton area and would like to learn more about porcelain veneers, we encourage you to contact a skilled cosmetic and restorative dentist. You can schedule a consultation at our practice by calling (780) 900-6433.
