When it comes to treating cosmetic flaws that affect the smile, porcelain veneers are one of the most versatile treatment options. These thin shells of durable tooth-colored material can mask all kinds of imperfections from view. Dr. Sharon B. Mateja has given countless patients a makeover at her Rancho Cucamonga, CA, office by using porcelain veneers.

In addition to treating chips, cracks, and stains, porcelain veneers can treat gaps between teeth. This means the benefits of orthodontic treatment without the months-long process. Let’s take a moment to consider how veneers are used to treat gaps and spacing problems.

Problems Caused by Tooth Gaps

Gaps between the front teeth can cause a number of issues. Aesthetically, a prominent tooth gap can make you reluctant to smile around others. In some cases, the gap between prominent teeth throws off the overall balance of your smile. More pronounced spacing issues could affect the alignment of your bite.

These are all compelling reasons to have prominent gaps between your teeth closed.

How Porcelain Veneers Work

A porcelain veneer is a thin shell of material that covers the front portion of a tooth. A small amount of tooth enamel is removed so the veneer can be slid onto the front of the tooth and blend in with the natural tooth structure.

The veneer is custom crafted in order to hide imperfections. By placing one veneer or two veneers, dentists can close major gaps between teeth and improve the overall appearance of a smile. Other spacing issues and problems with asymmetry can also be treated by using veneers.

Candidates for Dental Veneers

Good candidates for porcelain veneers are people who suffer from cosmetic flaws that affect their smile. In the case of tooth gaps, the spacing problem should be aesthetic in nature and not affect dental health or wellness.

During the consultation process at our Rancho Cucamonga practice, we can assess the health of your smile and the nature of your tooth gap to determine if porcelain veneers are right for you.

Porcelain Veneers vs. Orthodontics

Porcelain veneers offer significant advantages over orthodontics for treating minor tooth gaps. While treatment with braces can take a year or longer, the entire porcelain veneer process takes two visits roughly two weeks apart. This is why many people have nicknamed veneers “instant orthodontics.” Since the veneer materials are custom-matched and semi-translucent, your veneers will be indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

With this in mind, sometimes orthodontic care will be necessary rather than the use of veneers. In these cases, the tooth gap is too pronounced, or poses significant alignment issues that affect the function and health of the patient’s bite. This is another matter that we can discuss during the consultation process.

The Results of Veneer Treatment for Gaps

Patients who get porcelain veneers to fix their tooth gaps report high levels of satisfaction. They smile with confidence, and potentially open up new doors in their careers and social lives. With proper aftercare, porcelain veneers can last for many years.

Find Out if Veneers Are Right for You

If you suffer from tooth gaps and spacing issues, you may be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. To learn more about your cosmetic dentistry treatment options, schedule a consultation online or call our Rancho Cucamonga practice at (909) 989-5959.