Is composite/dental bonding reliable for lengthening teeth? (photo)

Question

My top front teeth are too short and I want to lengthen them. I'm willing to save up for porcelain veneers but I do know that bonding is a cheaper option. I just want to know if it lasts and if it is a good solution for short front teeth. Can you eat normally or does it come off? I was going to get composite veneers but I do know that they aren't as realistic looking and aren't as sturdy/stain more. I need help weighing all of my options. I'm only doing my two front teeth. My teeth are healthy.

Emery Cole, DMD, FAGD · Answer

First, we need to find out why the teeth are short.  Do you grind your teeth at night? Previous dental work etc.  That may indicate the need of a night guard etc to make the new length protected and/or treat a pathological bruxism condition.Second, I would bond the teeth to the length you want and test drive that for a few weeks to make sure you like the new smile.Third, duplicate the new smile in ceramic for better cosmetics and durability.

Kourosh Maddahi, DDS · Answer

Hi:Normally bonding at the edge of the tooth does not last under biting pressure.  It is best to do porcelain veneer as a long term solution.Best,Dr. Maddahi

Gary Braunstein, DDS · Answer

Teeth can be successfully lengthened with composite bonding as long as certain protocols are followed. The biggest reason why they would fail is if the occlusion/bite is not taken into consideration and adjusted properly. It is also advisable to wear a nightguard to protect them during your sleep. In our office we offer a trade up program so that if you decide to upgrade to porcelain veneers,  we credit you the amount that you paid for the composite veneers. In this way you get to enjoy the benefits of the composite veneers and have made a down payment towards  porcelain veneers if you decide to go that route in the future.  We have been very successful in  lengthening teeth with composite/dental veneers.  They are very natural looking, but they  are not as strong or stain resistant as porcelain veneers. One of the major benefits is that we do not have to prepare or reduce the enamel of your teeth as we do with porcelain veneers. You will need to be a little more careful and avoid biting into very hard foods or biting your fingernails,  but like our patients you will be amazed and very happy with the results .

Neal Nealis, DDS (retired) · Answer

Hi again, I disagree on this topic with the "experts". I think the edge of your teeth is where it is because that is precisely where nature wants it. I've seen too many people come into my office with broken restorations on their front teeth which had been lengthened. If fact I'm delivering a presentation to fourth year dental students on the subject in a couple of weeks. There are ways to safely lengthen front teeth, but it is more complicated than it would seem - and risky. If you use bonding, it is not as strong as veneers and could break. Veneers are more durable and will not break as easily, but the forces will be transferred into the roots and you could damage the bone. So for your specific situation, I would need to do an examination and evaluate your occlusion (function of your teeth and jaws).  Dr. Neal

Is composite/dental bonding reliable for lengthening teeth? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Veneer length

Answer: Veneer length

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Is composite/dental bonding reliable for lengthening teeth? (photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Veneer length

Answer: Veneer length

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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.