For several decades, veneers have stood out among cosmetic dental treatments for their remarkable ability to completely transform a smile and address a range of issues such as chips, gaps, cracks, and stains in as few as two appointments. While many people are aware of how these versatile appliances have beautified the grins of many celebrities and media personalities, they may not be aware of how they can sometimes be used to straighten out teeth in minor cases of misalignment. Here’s a guide to how veneers can realign a smile.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers were first invented to temporarily change an actor’s smile as part of a costume on a movie set, but they have since evolved into durable dental appliances that can last for up to fifteen years before needing replacement if they receive excellent care. These thin shells are crafted from high-quality ceramic materials that mimic the ideal appearance and texture of natural enamel, and they are designed to be cemented over troubled teeth to conceal unsightly flaws like stains, cracks, chips, and gaps. This can completely transform a smile into a beautiful new state.
How Are Veneers Placed?
Veneers are customized to match the unique smile of each patient, and they are typically placed during two appointments. During the first, the dentist will apply a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort before removing a small amount of enamel from the teeth being treated. After taking bite impressions, they will fix temporary veneers in place and send you on your way. You’ll come back to the office to receive your permanent veneers once these customized appliances arrive at the office about two weeks later. After any final adjustments, you’ll be ready to show off your smile.
How Can Veneers Realign Teeth?
In many cases of minor dental misalignment, veneers can sometimes be used to reshape the teeth into more optimal positions without the long treatment times and elaborate hygiene rituals that come with many orthodontic treatments. By resculpting a tooth and attaching a veneer to make it stand up straighter and bite more evenly, veneers can address mild cases of crowding, gapping, or even misalignments like overbites, underbites, and crossbites.
A misaligned bite can lead to issues like hygiene difficulties, uneven dental wear, jaw pain, and eventual tooth loss. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to straighten out your grin.
About the Practice
Westlake Hills Dental Arts provides the Austin community with the most excellent oral health services available. Led by Dr. Rebecca Long, the staff treats each patient with genuine courtesy and exemplary customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry such as veneers. To schedule your cosmetic dental consultation, contact the office online or dial (512) 328-0155.