You’re not alone if you’re feeling selfish about spacing imperfections in your smile. Even seemingly mild issues, like crooked, overcrowded, or gapped teeth, can put a big dent in your self-confidence. You likely already know orthodontics could help straighten your smile, but braces don’t do much to improve your appearance.
If you’ve heard of veneers referred to as “instant orthodontics”, you might wonder whether this popular cosmetic service can be used to correct your alignment concerns. Continue reading to learn more about it and how your dentist can help you meet your smile goals!
How Do Veneers Work?
Veneers are thin, ceramic shells that are customized to match (or enhance) the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth. Then, they’re cemented to the fronts of your enamel to mask aesthetic concerns, like chips, cracks, and stubborn stains.
For them to fit correctly, your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel, which doesn’t grow back. That means this treatment involves making irreversible changes to the structure of your teeth that leaves them slightly more vulnerable to oral issues. Thankfully, veneers are strong enough to help shield them and can last for 15+ years, making them an excellent long-term investment.
Can Veneers Straighten My Smile?
If you’ve ever heard of someone referring to these restorations as “instant orthodontics”, it’s only natural to question whether this service might help reposition your grin. However, this language is misleading because these customized covers don’t exert any pressure on your teeth to move them.
With that said, depending on the severity of your condition, your provider may be able to carefully position the shells to hide mild gaps or overcrowding, creating the illusion of a perfectly straight smile.
Am I a Good Candidate for Veneers?
Veneers are cemented to your enamel and require enough healthy material to support them, so this treatment might not be recommended to those with more severe damage or decay. Your dentist will also examine your mouth for any pre-existing issues, like gum disease, that could negatively affect the results.
Then, depending on the condition of your smile and your aesthetic goals, your provider can devise a personalized treatment plan. But if they think your misalignments could interfere with your dental health, they might refer you to an orthodontist, who can provide braces, clear aligners, or other solutions to help shift your teeth to their ideal places.
If you’re unsure whether veneers are right for you, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with your dentist!
About the Practice
At Quiet Corner Dental, you and your family benefit from a team of providers who are passionate about helping you improve your lives by enhancing your dental health. Dr. McGinn, Dr. Moaz, and Dr. Zakhem collaborate to provide a complete menu of services, including veneers, using advanced technology to meet your unique needs at one convenient location. If you want a straighter smile but are unsure whether you require orthodontics or cosmetics, you can request an appointment on the website or call (860) 928-3723.