Should You Use Veneers to Straighten Crooked Teeth?

Dentist Blog

If one or more of your front teeth isn't aligned quite straight, you may feel that your smile looks crooked. This may make you feel self-conscious and anxious about the way your teeth look, and you may be considering ways to straighten up your smile.

While braces may be the traditional way to straighten teeth, you can also look at other options such as veneers. During this treatment, veneer shells are placed over your teeth, kind of like false nails. If you have a tooth that doesn't sit straight, your dentist can position a veneer to cover over the shape of your tooth, making it look straight instead of crooked. But what are the pros and cons of using veneers to straighten your teeth?

The Advantages of Using Veneers to Fix Crooked Teeth

Veneers can be a good way of fixing minor cosmetic issues with your teeth. For example, if you only have one tooth that is slightly out of alignment or just a couple that are a little crooked, you may not want to have all of your teeth braced just to fix a couple of minor problems.

Veneers are also a relatively quick and immediate treatment compared to other straightening options such as braces. You only need a few appointments with your dentist to have a veneer made and fitted; you may have to wear braces for months or even years before you get the results you want.

You may also be happier with the costs of veneers compared to other straightening treatments. A single veneer has an average cost of between $480-1,300, depending on the type of veneer you use. A set of braces will typically cost you at least $4,500.

While veneers have some benefits over braces, you should consider the disadvantages before you make a decision on how to fix your teeth.

The Disadvantages of Using Veneers to Fix Crooked Teeth

While veneers may be an effective way to fix one or two teeth with minor problems, it may be better to opt for braces if a few of your teeth are crooked or if they are badly misaligned. While veneers can fix small cosmetic problems, they cover up misalignments rather than fixing them. They may not, therefore, be the best option if you have jaw or bite problems or overcrowding issues.

Veneers may also permanently change the surface of your teeth. For example, your dentist may have to shave off some of your enamel to make room for the veneer to fit naturally on a tooth. You can't then decide to stop using the veneer and to go back to your natural teeth. This is less of an issue if you use no-prep veneers that require less enamel removal; however, even these veneers may damage your enamel when they are removed.

While the initial costs of veneers may be cheaper than braces, you also have to factor in long-term maintenance costs. Veneers may need replacing over time; you may also need a new one fitted if you break or chip a shell.

If you still aren't sure whether veneers are the right option for you, ask your dentist for advice. In some cases, your dentist may recommend a veneer; in others, you may be advised to use braces or a different way of straightening your teeth, such as crowns or bridges.

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14 June 2016

Dental Emergencies and Kids

As a mother, I've seen my kids' faces light up after they've lost a tooth – oh, the excitement they feel about getting their grown up teeth! However, I've also seen my kids become extremely scared and anxious after having an adult tooth knocked out. If you're a mom or a dad with a busy kid, chances are you might see a tooth knocked out in a skateboarding accident or a sport pile-up. This blog is dedicated to those moments when you could lose your wits, and it's here to ensure you don't. I am collecting and curating the best information about kids and dental emergencies here so that you will have it when you need it. Best of luck with your kids' smiles!