You can completely change the look of your smile with veneers, even if you have crooked teeth. However, there are a few variables you and your dentist will need to investigate before you continue with the procedure:
- How your teeth are set
- Your overall oral health
- If you need to straighten your teeth beforehand
It’s also important to note that you can get veneers at any age, as long as you have the ability to go to regular checkups to make sure your teeth stay healthy. Traditional veneers are a more permanent solution for people that want a whiter smile, but they can also help with crooked teeth that aren’t in danger of developing infections.
Can Crooked Teeth Be Unsalvageable?
Most people have teeth that are slightly crooked; however, there are times when the gaps between your teeth can cause health issues down the line. Not only can overcrowding eventually lead to gum disease, but your teeth can also start to wear down on each other.
Overcrowding can also lead to periodontal disease, which can make teeth fall out if not treated. You should never feel pain while you’re eating or brushing your teeth.
Your Oral Health Depends on Your Brushing Routine
There are many ways to ensure your oral health is suitable enough for dental veneers. It’s always best to brush at an angle, approximately forty-five degrees, so you can get rid of bits of food after meals.
You should also take your time when you brush your teeth and make sure both your teeth and gums get the royal treatment. Scrubbing too hard can cause bleeding and irritation. Putting veneers over your teeth while your gums are sore will likely cause even more discomfort.
Wear and Tear From Tight Gaps
While our teeth do eventually wear down over time due to age, it’s not recommended to wear veneers over loose teeth. Your dentist will need to be extra cautious when dealing with shifting teeth since shifting can indicate a loss of bone density.
Covering loose teeth with composite veneers may require you to keep coming back for adjustments. Covering overcrowded teeth with veneers could lead to a buildup of bacteria in your teeth, which is why it’s not always possible to use veneers for crooked teeth.
Can I Get My Teeth Straightened for Veneers?
Depending on how crooked your teeth are, your dentist may recommend straightening them before he or she considers you to be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. This is a necessary procedure to make sure dental issues don’t pop up later. If you’re a good candidate for Invisalign, you may be able to get your teeth straightened within just a few months.
Get Your Oral Health Checked First
Not only will your dentist need to check for shifting or overcrowding before the procedure, but he or she will also need to check for underlying health issues such as tooth decay or root canals. You will get an X-Ray to ensure all underlying conditions are taken care of beforehand.
When you have veneers placed, your dentist will start by cleaning your mouth and then grind the surface of your teeth with a tool. This process makes the surface of your teeth rough so the dental cement will bind properly.
Will Veneers Damage My Teeth?
As long as you’ve been thoroughly checked before your appointment, veneers will not damage your teeth. However, this does not mean that you will not need to get them replaced in the future. As you age, your teeth will continue to shift around.
Keep in mind that veneers can also start to discolor in about ten years. It’s always important to visit your dentist consistently so you can have your teeth checked and know when it’s time to redo any cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Are There Other Alternatives to Veneers?
While veneers are seen as a good alternative to crowns, crowns may be better for your needs if you have missing teeth. Landmark Dentistry offers various kinds of dental services, including dental implants, Invisalign, full mouth reconstructions, and much more. With our cutting-edge implant procedures, we have served patients in the Charlotte, North Carolina area since 2007 and continue to provide excellent services that make your overall health a priority.
Get a Professional Opinion from Us
Our highly recommended dentists are here to help you with every step of the process, from the time you schedule your first consultation to the day of your appointment. You deserve a smile you’re proud of, and we can help you keep it that way with regular screenings and cleanings. We offer porcelain veneers in Charlotte, Mallard Creek, Matthews, and Wesley Chapel. Contact us today to schedule your next consultation.