Case Study

Closing Gaps and Repairing Cracks

Aesthetic and structural reinforcement using minimally invasive composite veneers

Closing Gaps and Repairing Cracked

Patient overview

Oscar came to our clinic with a noticeable gap between his upper central incisors (diastema) and vertical cracks affecting both teeth. These concerns impacted both the appearance and structural integrity of his front teeth.

To address this, we recommended direct composite veneers. This minimally invasive treatment restores tooth structure, closes gaps, and delivers a natural, seamless finish in a single appointment.

Teeth Gap
Cracked Tooth

Clinical assessment

During the clinical evaluation, we observed:

  • A 2–3 mm diastema between the upper central incisors.
  • Vertical enamel cracks on both teeth, with no involvement of the dental pulp.
  • Overall healthy teeth with stable bite and occlusion.

The primary treatment goal was to restore the structural strength of the central incisors while achieving a natural and harmonious appearance that blends seamlessly with the surrounding teeth.

Our treatment plan

The treatment was carefully planned to achieve multiple objectives:

  • Close the gap between the upper central incisors.
  • Repair vertical cracks to reinforce the strength of the teeth.
  • Restore natural aesthetics, including tooth shape, shade, and surface texture.
  • Preserve healthy enamel through a minimally invasive, conservative approach.

Pre-treatment photographs and precise shade selection guided the layering and sculpting of the composite veneers, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.

Step-by-step procedure

Tooth preparation: Minimal preparation was carried out to preserve healthy enamel. The teeth were thoroughly cleaned and lightly etched to enhance bonding, ensuring a strong and durable adhesion without unnecessary removal of natural tooth structure.

Composite veneer application: A bonding agent was applied to the prepared surfaces, followed by careful layering of composite resin. This process rebuilt the tooth anatomy, closed the diastema, and masked the vertical cracks. Each layer was meticulously sculpted to replicate the natural contours and surface texture of the adjacent teeth.

Finishing and polishing: The final veneers were polished to a smooth, glossy finish, achieving a natural, seamless appearance that blends harmoniously with the surrounding teeth.

Treatment outcomes

The treatment achieved multiple objectives:

  • Closed the diastema between the upper central incisors.
  • Strengthened the teeth, repairing cracks and reinforcing structural integrity.
  • Restored natural aesthetics, with carefully matched shape, shade, and surface texture.
  • Preserved healthy enamel through a minimally invasive, conservative approach.
Restored Teeth
Treatment Outcomes

Maintaining healthy, restored teeth

Oscar was provided with instructions to help maintain his veneers and ensure long-lasting results:

  • Practice proper brushing techniques to protect the restored surfaces.
  • Avoid excessive force on the treated teeth, such as biting hard objects.
  • Attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the veneers and overall oral health.

Minimally invasive aesthetic and structural restoration

Direct composite veneers offer a conservative and effective solution for closing gaps, repairing cracks, and restoring both the natural appearance and structural integrity of teeth. In cases like Oscar’s, this treatment can deliver predictable, durable, and aesthetically seamless results while preserving healthy enamel.

* Treatments and results may vary depending on the patient’s dental condition and oral habits. This case study is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional dental advice. A comprehensive consultation with a qualified dental professional is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment.