Do I Need to have Straight Teeth before getting Veneers?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry

straight teethSanta Cruz  and Scotts Valley CA

Veneers are a popular choice for correcting smile imperfections and boosting self-confidence. These ultra-thin porcelain or composite shells fit directly over the front of each tooth being treated to hide stains, cracks, chips, and other cosmetic issues concerning the look of teeth. But does getting veneers require that your teeth be perfectly straight? Today on our newest blog, we answer this question and share the benefits of getting veneers from our Scotts Valley cosmetic dentists.

In most cases, teeth do not need to be straight in order to get veneers. In fact, veneers can actually help make teeth appear straighter without orthodontics in cases where a patient’s teeth are slightly crooked or overlapping. However, there may be some instances in which orthodontics are a better option like in cases of severe tooth or bite misalignment. The best way to know whether veneers are right for you is to consult with our cosmetic dentists at Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry.

How do veneers make teeth look straight?

Veneers are uniquely designed using impression of your teeth and bite. This helps ensure the veneers are the right length (not too short or long), and our cosmetic dentist uses their expertise to design the veneers to be of an appropriate width and thickness so that they appear natural. Plus, using a trusted dental lab ensures that the veneers look natural with light reflecting qualities of dental enamel. Additionally, the shade of white that you and your dentist choose matters how natural your veneers look. Choosing a natural white color looks more appealing than a super, bright white color.

A dental lab uses the impressions to fabricate your veneers. Once the veneers are returned from the dental lab, the dentist permanently bonds them onto your teeth. Since your natural teeth must be shaved down a little bit, veneers are permanent. The results are that your teeth look straight even though you did not get braces or undergo orthodontic treatment. Therefore, veneers can help you achieve straighter looking teeth within a couple of weeks! If you opt for composite veneers, also known as dental bonding, this procedure is completed in-office, typically during a single visit.

How long do veneers last?

Veneers are crafted from the highest grade of dental porcelain, although sometimes they can be made from a composite material that is also highly durable and natural looking. They can withstand normal chewing, and you should maintain good oral health so that they last longer and to protect the surrounding structures like jawbone, gums, and adjacent teeth. With good care and maintenance, veneers can last a decade or longer. However, if one chips or breaks, it will require replacement. We should also add to avoid chewing hard candies and ice, as well as pencils or other inedible objects and fingernails, which could break the porcelain. But otherwise, you can eat common foods as usual without concern of harming your veneers.

Get Veneers in Scotts Valley, Los Gatos, and Santa Cruz, California

If you have slightly crooked or imperfect teeth that you would like to cover with veneers to achieve a beautiful, confident smile, contact Ebrahimian Integrative Dentistry by calling (831) 438-4411. We begin with a consultation to discuss your smile needs and assess your oral health, then move forward with a second appointment to get started on your treatment.