Why can't caps and veneers extend slightly into the gumline?
Jul 21, 2010 in
Health FAQs
I have two caps that match my gumline exactly. Next week I’ll be getting two more veneers for cosmetic reasons but I’m very worried that they will be noticable. My boss has caps that are noticable only because it’s so obvious that they stop exactly at his gumline, and in that regard those are very similiar to mine. If a cap or veneer were to extend slightly into the gumline it would make all the difference in the world for their appearance. Why isn’t this possible? Now that I’m sensitive to this issue I can spot a cap a mile away. Please help with your answer.
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3 comments
dre@itsa.ucsf.edu on July 21, 2010 at 4:27 pm
They can extend into the gum line and often do. that is the purpose of the retraction cord the dentist places when he is cutting your tooth.
OhGreatWiseOneinHipWaders on July 21, 2010 at 4:27 pm
If the cap extends onto the gum-line it can promote gingivitis and periodontal disease. You do intend to keep the remaining teeth you have, don’t you?
Go to a high quality aesthetic dentist who specializes in very attractive work. You may pay more, but if your whole reason is cosmetic, poor quality work serves no purpose except to empty your pocketbook and damage your natural teeth, now does it?
KC on July 21, 2010 at 4:27 pm
It would depend on the quality of the veneer. You should not be able to see the difference from a distance if the shades are correct. The reason for keeping the margins above the gum margin is that the junction of the crown and the tooth is the weaker point. By keeping it above the gum it is easier to clean and therefore more hygienic.
Good Luck
KC
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