Should I lengthen my veneers? (Photo)

Question

I want to lengthen my veneers just a bit without it looking like a horse. I have my temporaries on and I just want them a little bit longer. My dentist said she can shorten them if I feel it's too long. Will that weaken the veneers ? And if I decided to make them longer how much mm do you think?

Sarah Thompson, DMD · Answer

From the info that you provided, your top front teeth are not overlapping your bottom front teeth that much.This means you still have some room to increase the length of your top front teeth by approximately 1mm.Why don't you ask your dentist to ask the lab to increase the length in the wax mock up and then you can have new temporaries made with your desired new length.  If you don't like it, you don't have to cut into your permanent veneers because you would still be in temporaries.  Good luck and I hope this info helps you. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMDSt. Louis, MORealSelf100

Scott Young, DDS · Answer

It is difficult to tell whether or not to lengthen your veneers without seeing a photo of your smile.  I would think that they are really close to the correct length, but yes minor adjustments can be made to them without causing damage.  Have him/her lengthen them by 1/2mm or so and see what you think.  If you don't like the added length they can shorten after bonding the final restorations.

Ira Shapira, DDS · Answer

First, a  correct answer would require more information on the photos.  Your doctor has used provisionals to help you make these decision, much better than after the work is done.You have natural  (attractive) translucency on your lower teeth, did you want that natural look in your final veneers are you more intrested it white/ more homogenized appearance?If you make the teeth longer and build in translucency shortening the teeth will remve that translucency.  If you prefer the hollywood appearance, the same color throughout not a problem.I frequently see posts from patients who don't want veneers because they don't look natural.  Natural looking transluceny and characterization is more natural.  Your desires matter.  Some patients want a white showy smile.The question of length needs a larger picture with a large natural smile when there is no anaesthetic.  Must be done at home or seperate visit.  The maxillary smile line should follow the lower lip smile line.  Inceasing length too much without increasing vertical demension will not look or feel right.See if some can capture you with a relaxed natural smile and/or laugh to actually see what to expect.Looking at old casual pictures of yourself are a good reference.Ira L Shapira DDSDiplomate, American Academy of Pain ManagementDiplomate, American Board of Dental Sleep MedicineFellow & Regent, International College of CranioMandibular OrthopedicsChair, Alliance of TMD OrganizationsThinkBetterLife.com

Joseph F. DelPrete, DMD · Answer

Without an evaluation in office that question cannot be answered.  Need to evaluate how you speak with added length, what the preps were like, how your smile is at rest.  Have the temps lengthened and see if you like them.You can shorten permanent veneers , but only slightly as that will effect the aesthetics.  The strength will not be compromised

Gary Braunstein, DDS · Answer

If the photos that are above your question are yours, then I think that your dentist has the veneers at the ideal length for you and the rest of your smile. That being said, you are the person that has to be pleased with the result.  So why not ask your dentist  to lengthen your temporary veneers so that you  both can see how they will look.  This should not take much time, and then you and your dentist will be assured that you are happy with the final result.  Good Luck, Dr. Gary Braunstein

Should I lengthen my veneers? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Lengthen veneers

Answer: Lengthen veneers

Answer: Should I lengthen my porcelain veneers?

Answer: Should I lengthen my porcelain veneers?

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Should I lengthen my veneers? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Lengthen veneers

Answer: Lengthen veneers

Answer: Should I lengthen my porcelain veneers?

Answer: Should I lengthen my porcelain veneers?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Porcelain Veneers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.