Missing teeth can have a significant impact not only on your appearance but also on how you chew, speak, and smile. It can even affect the way you carry yourself in social situations. When considering cosmetic dental procedures, dental veneers are a popular choice because they correct imperfections such as chips, stains, gaps, or misshapen teeth. It’s clear that veneers can enhance the appearance of the teeth, but can veneers replace missing teeth? We explore this question below.
Can Veneers Replace Missing Teeth?
Veneers are custom-made shells or coverings that fit and bond over the front surfaces of your teeth. They conceal a wide variety of aesthetic imperfections of your teeth to enhance your smile. They are typically made from high-quality dental materials, such as porcelain or tooth-colored composite. However, since they are just covers, they require an existing tooth to which they can bond. They need the natural tooth structure to support them. Applying a veneer without a tooth underneath will not work because it lacks structural integrity on its own. They are not designed to fill empty spaces or to bear the forces involved in biting or chewing without support.
Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
If you are missing one or more teeth, there are other dental treatments that you can choose from to successfully restore both function and aesthetics to your teeth.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically inserted into a jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. A crown will be attached to it once it has healed and integrated with the bone. A dental implant is a great choice if you want something that not only looks natural but also can last a lifetime with proper care.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a prosthetic used to bridge the gap created by one or two missing teeth. This prosthetic is composed of one or two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap, and a false tooth or teeth, called pontics, in between. This is a good option for you if you are missing one or a few consecutive teeth. Although surgery is not required for dental bridges, reshaping of the surrounding healthy teeth is required.
Dentures
They are partial or full removable prosthetics that replace one or more missing teeth. They may cost less initially, but they usually require more maintenance over time. Additionally, patients with dentures do not experience the same level of stability or comfort as those with implants.
Can Veneers Be Used to Cover Small Gaps?
Although veneers lack the structural integrity necessary to replace missing teeth, they can sometimes be used to visually close small gaps caused by congenital issues or minor spacing between teeth, provided there are still healthy teeth on each side.
Can Veneers Be Used in Combination with Other Restorative Treatments?
Yes, veneers can be used in combination with other dental treatments. For instance, if aside from having missing teeth, you have discolored or damaged teeth, your dentist may suggest a combination of treatments. Dental implants or bridges can replace missing teeth, while veneers can be used to enhance the appearance of remaining visible teeth for a more seamless look and an attractive smile.
While dental veneers are an excellent solution to improve the appearance of your existing teeth, they will not be able to replace your missing teeth. To address missing teeth, consider exploring other restorative options, such as dental implants, bridges, or dentures. Consulting with a qualified licensed dentist is necessary for you to make an informed decision about which course of action to take based on your budget, oral health, and cosmetic goals.
Remember that a complete set of teeth will not only make you look more attractive, but it can also restore your confidence and provide you with full dental function, ultimately impacting your overall health and well-being. If you are ready to restore your oral health, schedule a consultation with us today.