Can You Get Veneers with Gum Disease?
The short answer is: generally no, not until the gum disease is treated. Veneers are a cosmetic dental procedure designed to improve the appearance of your teeth, but their success hinges on the overall health of your mouth. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, significantly impacts this health, making veneer placement problematic and potentially unsuccessful.
Let's delve deeper into why gum disease poses such a challenge for veneer placement and what steps you might need to take before considering this cosmetic procedure.
What is Gum Disease?
Gum disease is an infection of the gums that, if left untreated, can damage the soft tissues and bone supporting your teeth. It progresses through stages, starting with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and potentially leading to periodontitis (more severe infection affecting the bone and ligaments). Symptoms can include bleeding gums, red or swollen gums, bad breath, and receding gums.
Why Gum Disease Prevents Veneer Placement
Several reasons explain why dentists generally won't place veneers on teeth with gum disease:
-
Unstable Foundation: Gum disease weakens the foundation of your teeth. If the gums and supporting bone are unhealthy, veneers may not adhere properly, leading to premature failure, chipping, or even tooth loss. The placement of veneers requires a strong, healthy tooth structure.
-
Increased Risk of Infection: Veneers require meticulous preparation of the tooth surface. With gum disease present, there's a heightened risk of infection during and after this preparation. The infection could compromise the veneer's bond and potentially lead to further gum disease complications.
-
Inaccurate Placement: Receding gums caused by gum disease can alter the appearance and position of your teeth. This makes it difficult for the dentist to accurately place veneers, resulting in an unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome. The margins of the veneers might show, or the veneers might not blend well with the surrounding gums.
-
Treatment Prioritization: Addressing gum disease takes priority. Untreated gum disease can lead to significant oral health problems, including tooth loss. Treating the underlying issue before cosmetic procedures ensures long-term oral health and the success of any subsequent cosmetic work.
How to Get Veneers if You Have Gum Disease
The process involves treating the gum disease first:
-
Professional Cleaning and Scaling: Your dentist will begin with a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup contributing to the infection. Deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) might be necessary to remove bacteria beneath the gum line.
-
Antibiotic Treatment: In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help combat the infection.
-
Gum Graft Surgery: If significant gum recession has occurred, gum grafting may be necessary to restore the gum line and provide a stable base for the veneers.
-
Monitoring and Maintenance: Regular checkups and meticulous oral hygiene are crucial to maintain gum health and the long-term success of veneers. Once your gum disease is under control and your gums are healthy, your dentist can assess your suitability for veneers.
Can you get veneers with mild gingivitis?
While severe gum disease prevents veneers, some dentists might consider veneers with mild gingivitis, only after thorough treatment and stabilization of the gum condition. This is a case-by-case decision and requires careful evaluation by a dental professional.
In conclusion, while veneers can dramatically improve your smile, addressing underlying health issues like gum disease is paramount. Prioritizing gum health ensures the longevity and success of any cosmetic dental procedure, resulting in a healthier, more beautiful smile. Always consult with a qualified dentist for a personalized assessment and treatment plan.
