Can You Get Porcelain Veneers With Missing Teeth?

If you have a missing tooth and want to improve the appearance of your smile, you may wonder whether porcelain veneers are an option. At Gardens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry in Las Vegas, NV, Dr. Ryan Martz frequently sees patients from Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City, and Paradise who are interested in dental veneers for cosmetic reasons but also need solutions for missing teeth.

While veneers are an excellent way to address many aesthetic concerns, they are not designed to replace missing teeth. Don't worry; there are ways to combine tooth replacement options with veneers to create a natural, beautiful smile.

Can porcelain veneers be used to replace a missing tooth?

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front surface of natural teeth to improve their appearance. They are typically used to correct issues such as:

• Stains or discoloration that does not respond to whitening
• Chipped, worn, or cracked teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Misshapen or uneven teeth

However, veneers need a natural tooth structure for proper support, so they cannot replace a missing tooth. If you have a gap from a missing tooth, veneers alone will not fill that space. Instead, Dr. Martz may recommend combining a restorative procedure, like a dental implant or bridge, with porcelain veneers to enhance your smile.

What options are available if you have a missing tooth?

If you are missing one or more teeth but still want to improve the look of your smile with veneers, Dr. Martz offers several solutions to replace the missing tooth first so that dental veneers can later be used for cosmetic improvements on neighboring teeth. Some options include:

• Dental implants: A dental implant is a long-lasting solution for missing teeth that replaces both the tooth root and crown. Once healed, the implant looks and functions like a natural tooth.
• Dental bridges: A bridge uses the teeth on either side of the missing space to support an artificial tooth. This option may be recommended if implants are not suitable.
• Partial dentures: Partial dentures may offer a removable solution for patients missing multiple teeth.

Once the missing tooth is restored, veneers can be placed on the adjacent teeth to create an even, symmetrical smile that looks natural and attractive.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

Porcelain veneers are known for their durability and strength, especially when compared to other cosmetic options. With proper care, including regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like nail biting or chewing on hard objects, porcelain veneers can typically last 10 – 15 years or longer. Veneers enhance the appearance of teeth and are made from high-quality materials designed to resist staining and maintain their natural-looking sheen over time. Dr. Martz takes great care to customize each veneer's shape, size, and color to blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile.

Discover how we can rebuild your smile

If you are ready to explore options for porcelain veneers and replacing a missing tooth, contact Gardens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry in Las Vegas. Serving patients from Henderson, Boulder City, Paradise, and nearby areas, Dr. Ryan Martz can help you achieve a natural-looking smile that you can feel confident sharing.