Major Alignment Issues
You already know that veneers can cover over natural gaps between your teeth. They can also cover over minor overlapping issues as well. However, if your teeth have significant alignment issues, then veneers are not the right solution. Major alignment issues can lead to other problems, such as jaw pain, excessive tooth wear and more. Veneers cannot solve these issues. Instead, orthodontic work should be done to straighten your teeth, providing not only better aesthetics, but a healthier mouth overall.
Cracks Below the Gum Line
Veneers can be used to cover over minor chips and cracks. But, if you have a crack that extends below the gum line, you need a different treatment. Cracks below the gum line can lead to an infection. Rather than veneers, your tooth would most likely benefit from a root canal to clean out the bacteria that have gathered inside the tooth. After the tooth is cleaned, the pulp and nerve removed, it is filled, and then capped with a crown.
Significant Decay
Minor decay, following a filling, can be covered over with a veneer. However, if your tooth has suffered significant decay, its structure becomes compromised, even with fillings. A weakened tooth needs support, and veneers cannot provide that. Instead, your tooth will be better served with a crown, which provides not only an aesthetic fix, but a supportive one as well.
If your teeth have imperfections, your dentist will perform a thorough exam to help you determine which restoration is the best option. Schedule your appointment today! If you have any questions, or if you would like to learn more, please call us today at (480) 820-4342.