I want two veneers for my front teeth because they are protruding, and a gap is forming. I wore braces as a teenager. Now that I am in my 60s, my teeth are shifting a bit. My dentist wants to do six veneers instead of two. I think it’s overtreatment. Can two veneers soften the look of the teeth that stick out? Thanks. Kyleigh from TX

Kyleigh,

Without an exam, we can’t determine whether two or six porcelain veneers would be best for you. However, we can share insight to help you understand the reasoning behind your dentist’s suggestion.

Possible Reasons for Recommending Six Veneers

There are typically two motivations behind recommending more veneers:

• Your dentist may believe a broader treatment plan will yield better cosmetic results—and may also come with a higher cost.
• On the other hand, your dentist may be committed to quality outcomes and unwilling to deliver a result that might not meet their standards.

A dentist may prefer not to do small-scale veneer work (e.g., just two veneers) if it risks poor aesthetic blending with the natural teeth.

How Bonding and Retainers Can Minimize a Tooth Gap

For adults with a gap between their front teeth, many cosmetic dentists use composite bonding to widen the teeth and close the space. If the gap eventually returns, the bonding can be redone. However, for lasting results, patients often need a retainer to hold the teeth in place.

Retainer needs vary. Some people only need one temporarily. Others—especially those with recurring gaps—may need long-term retention. Based on what you’ve shared, it appears that consistent retainer use is essential to prevent a recurring gap.

Do You Still Need to Wear a Retainer?

Gradually reducing retainer wear can help you figure out whether it’s still necessary. Follow this progression:

• Begin by wearing your retainer full-time.
• Shift to nighttime wear only.
• Then wear it every other night.
• Each time you put it back in, check for tightness or pressure.
• Pressure means your teeth have shifted—go back to more frequent wear.
• No pressure? You can try increasing the interval between uses.

In some cases, an orthodontist may bond a permanent retainer to the back of the teeth to prevent movement for the rest of a person’s life. That may have been a smart option in your situation.

Lowell, Massachusetts, accredited cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Szarek strives to give his patients the best dental care in Lowell.