One of the first things that people notice about you is the quality of your teeth and imperfections can leave you feeling self-conscious. For example, if you have spaces in your smile, you might try to remain tight-lipped rather than engage in meals, conversations, or social activities with others for fear of being judged.
You probably already know that your dentist can boost your confidence with veneers, but can these restorations close the gaps in your grin? Continue reading to find out!
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, ceramic shells bonded over the front surfaces of your teeth to mask one or several imperfections at a time. They’re customized to match your natural pearly whites’ size, shade, and shape for seamless results that enhance your appearance. Plus, they’re coated with a durable glaze that helps them resist chipping and staining and can last 25+ years with the right care.
It’s worth noting that for these prosthetics to sit flush against your gumline, your dentist must remove a thin amount of enamel. This protective outer layer doesn’t grow back, making this an irreversible change to your teeth.
Can Veneers Straighten Teeth?
Some providers refer to veneers as “instant orthodontics”, leading curious patients to wonder whether they can also reposition their grins, but the terminology is somewhat misleading. These restorations are considered a cosmetic treatment and not an orthodontic method because their main function is to improve your reflection, not your dental health. They’re ideal for masking chips, cracks, stubborn stains, slight overcrowding, and minor gaps on a surface level.
Your dentist can position your veneers over overcrowded or gapped teeth to give the impression of a perfectly straight smile. However, the porcelain covers don’t exert enough pressure to shift them out of their current places and, therefore, do not functionally fix the gaps in your grin.
When Should I Consider Orthodontic Treatment?
Veneers are an excellent way to hide small spaces between teeth, but if your dental health is suffering, you may want to discuss orthodontic options with your dentist. Overcrowded teeth can be harder to clean because you can’t reach all the surfaces to brush or floss them, increasing your vulnerability to common oral issues like gum disease, tooth decay, or other injuries. Not only that, but spaces in your smile can lead to lacerated tissues or trapped food that attract bacteria or contribute to infection.
If you’re unsure whether you can address your concern with a cosmetic solution like veneers or should ask about orthodontics like Invisalign, the best next step is to consult your dentist!
About the Practice
Patients at Mt. Holly Family Dentistry benefit from two dentists with 20+ years of combined experience. Dr. Cygler and Dr. Genco are passionate about getting to know you so they can tailor treatment plans to meet your unique needs. They offer a full array of services under one roof and welcome people of all ages so you and your entire family receive the same top-quality care. They can help with everything from basic preventative care to cosmetic upgrades to orthodontic treatments. If you’re worried about the state of your smile, you can request an appointment on the website or call (609) 267-3230.