Should I Only Get Dental Veneers on My Top Teeth?

Should I Only Get Veneers on My Top Teeth?

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or resin composite material that are bonded to the front surface of teeth. Getting veneers is a cosmetic treatment option utilized to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, unevenly spaced, chipped, cracked, stained, or have gaps.

Because veneers cover visible tooth surfaces, they are commonly placed on the top front six to eight teeth that show when smiling and talking. However, veneers can be applied to both top and bottom teeth for complete smile makeovers.

If considering veneers, deciding whether to place veneers on just the top teeth or on the top and bottom teeth is an important treatment consideration.

Factors in Deciding Whether to Do Just Top or Both Top and Bottom Veneers

There are advantages and disadvantages associated with only doing top veneers or doing full mouth veneers on both arches of teeth. Consider the following factors when deciding the best approach:

Treatment Costs

Doing veneers on just the 6-8 top front teeth costs less than doing full mouth veneers. Individual veneers range from $925 to $2,500 per tooth. Full mouth veneers can run $20,000 to $50,000 or more.

Extent of Cosmetic Concerns

If obvious cosmetic flaws are isolated to top front teeth, only addressing those teeth with veneers may achieve cosmetic goals. However, if bottom teeth also show signs of staining, gaps, or chips, lower veneers should also be considered for complete smile uniformity.

Bite Relationship Considerations

The thickness or shape of top veneers impacts the bite between top and bottom teeth. Well-designed top veneers should account for proper bite alignment, while bilateral veneers can correct more substantial bite issues.

The Benefits of Just Doing Top Veneers

While doing full mouth veneers offers the maximum cosmetic impact, there are definite benefits to only doing top veneers in select cases:

More Conservative Treatment

Placing veneers only on the top 6-8 front teeth is less invasive and more conservative than doing the top and bottom teeth. This approach requires less tooth reduction for less irreversible effects.

Lower Costs

As mentioned above, cutting treatment to only the most visible 6-8 upper teeth creates significant cost savings over full mouth rehabilitation with veneers.

May Resolve Main Cosmetic Concerns

For some patients, cosmetic flaws are isolated to upper front teeth that show while speaking, smiling, or laughing. Limiting veneer work to these visible teeth can effectively and adequately resolve main cosmetic concerns for a fraction of the cost of lower veneers.

Quick, Easy Process

Prepping and placing veneers on just the upper front teeth is a relatively quick and easy process. Office visits are minimized, and recovery is quick and comfortable compared to doing an entire upper and lower smile makeover with veneers.

Reversibility

Compared to a full mouth restoration, which permanently alters almost all teeth, just doing upper veneers leaves flexibility of reversing or revising treatment down the road by removing upper veneers. This conserves healthy tooth structure of bottom teeth.

The Benefits of Doing Full Mouth Veneers

While more extensive and expensive, there are advantages to doing veneers on both the upper and lower teeth:

Complete Smile Uniformity and Balance

Addressing flaws or discoloration in both upper and lower teeth creates a seamless, cohesive smile line with perfectly matched veneers on all visible tooth surfaces.

Ability to Enhance Bite and Jaw Relationships

Biting issues can occur when only upper veneers alter vertical dimensions of front teeth. Doing aligned veneer work on both upper and lower teeth gives full control over enhancing the bite and jaw position.

Long Lasting Results

Completely overhauling both arches of teeth from the first molar forward creates uniform, durable, long lasting veneer work. This full mouth approach is a permanent solution for severely worn, damaged, or flawed teeth.

Considerations for Top Veneers

Before proceeding with only top veneers, note the following considerations:

Bite and Jaw Position Factors

Altering the shape, length, or thickness of upper front veneers influences vertical dimensions and bite. Carefully evaluate bite mechanics before and after finalizing top veneer placement.

Durability Concerns

Just doing top veneers leaves bottom teeth unprotected. Take care to avoid cracking porcelain top veneers on underlying untreated lower teeth.

Eventual Lower Veneer Needs

If lower teeth eventually need veneers for cosmetic improvement or bite function, redoing top veneers again at that time to realign everything carries extra costs and complexity.

Consult an Experienced Cosmetic Dentist

The best practice is always to carefully discuss veneer options with an experienced cosmetic dentist. Together you can review your specific cosmetic and functional needs and devise the optimal veneer treatment plan.

In some cases, veneers limited to just the upper front smile line teeth may suffice. More complex needs and bite issues may call for full mouth veneer treatment for a perfectly aligned, dazzling smile.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.