As cosmetic dentistry options that can fix the look of damaged or stained teeth, dental veneers can help restore the smile of patients with gum disease. Many are able to get this treatment when the disease is under control. However, gingivitis or periodontitis is different for every patient. One patient may have a disease that is relatively easy to treat, while another may struggle to get oral health under control even after trying several treatment options.

It is not necessarily that veneers make gum disease worse, but these restorations may interfere with treatment. Dentists who offer cosmetic procedures for patients generally prefer to work on healthy gums and teeth. Read on to discover when veneers are a possibility and when these cosmetic enhancements must be put on hold for the sake of the patient’s health.

What happens to the mouth during gum disease

Gums are integral parts of the human body that help people maintain good oral health. Unfortunately, these tissues are often overlooked and ignored until disease sets in. Healthy gums support the teeth and house a number of beneficial as well as harmful bacteria. Here is what can happen when the harmful bacteria get out of control:

1. Gingivitis

The mild form of gum disease is referred to as “gingivitis". The first warning sign a patient may experience is bleeding gums while brushing teeth. There may be no symptoms at all until the disease is more advanced.

While mild gingivitis may not seem like a concern, patients with gum disease are at higher risk for diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which are three major health problems worldwide. It is ideal to get gingivitis under control as soon as possible, even if it does not seem severe.

2. Periodontitis

As gum disease progresses, patients may notice bad breath and visibly swollen gums that bleed when patients brush and floss. Other people may also realize their teeth appear to be growing, which happens when the gums shrink as the disease gets worse.

Gums may also loosen and create “pockets” around the teeth, which can be incredibly painful. Patients may experience loose teeth due to a combination of the gums becoming unstable and separating from the teeth.

How gum disease interferes with the placement and care of veneers

If a patient has severe gum disease that involves gums bleeding, swelling, and separating from the teeth, their mouth is likely not a candidate for veneers in this state. Porcelain and composite veneers fall under the category of cosmetic dentistry, which means that these devices improve appearance but are not necessary for the health of the patient. Unfortunately, patients must put cosmetic treatments on hold until the gum disease is treated.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Veneers and Dental Laminates in Gainesville, GA

Conclusion

A dentist can create a treatment plan for the patient to help halt or even reverse the gum disease. Patients with mild gingivitis may be able to use special kinds of toothpaste, rinses, or mouthwashes. The dentist will monitor the condition closely. Each patient is different; many with mild gum disease will recover, at which point they can have a conversation with the dentist about receiving veneers.

Request an appointment or call GDC Smiles at 770-504-5725 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.

Recent Posts

How Dental Veneers Can Improve The Look Of Your Smile

Dental veneers, artificial shells that go over teeth, can improve your smile in many ways, from concealing irremovable stains to filling in gaps between teeth. Some procedures are only to change the appearance of a smile, while others can also provide a stronger defense against oral issues and infections. Whatever a patient’s personal needs, it…

How Long Do Veneers Last?

Veneers are artificial shells placed over natural teeth to conceal damage, such as discoloration or chips. Patients often invest in this type of dental restoration to create whole, even smiles that foster self-confidence. When considering any treatments to improve a smile, many patients want solutions that last. For many patients, veneers can offer a long-lasting…

Are Veneers Only For Front Teeth?

Most dentists offer dental veneers as a treatment option for people in need of tooth repair. This is a popular choice among many patients because the results are durable and attractive. While these restorations can be used to treat a variety of issues, they are more appropriate in certain situations.Dental veneers are an excellent option…

Dr. Lia Gallo-Urrego

Share
Published by
Dr. Lia Gallo-Urrego

Recent Posts

Choosing Between Dental Crowns and Veneers

When it comes to enhancing the smile or addressing dental issues, dental crowns and veneers…

2 days ago

The Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns reinforce a decayed or damaged tooth, restoring its function and beauty. These are…

7 days ago

3 Benefits of Implant Supported Dentures

One option for someone who is missing teeth is implant supported dentures. It is important…

1 week ago

When Is a Dental Crown Required After a Root Canal?

Dental crowns may be the final touch after a root canal treatment. This therapy is…

1 week ago

Dental Implants: The Solution for a Natural Smile

Having a missing tooth or teeth can make you feel self-conscious and reluctant to smile…

2 weeks ago

Restoring Dental Implants With Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are often combined with implants to replace missing teeth. Implants are metal posts…

2 weeks ago