Porcelain Veneers Can Correct Misaligned Teeth

When most people think of straightening their teeth, braces and orthodontic treatments are probably the first thing that comes to mind. However, these may not be your only options. In mild cases of misalignment, something as simple as porcelain veneers may actually be an appropriate and effective solution for creating a straighter, more even smile. At Sycamore Family Dentistry, Midlothian, VA dentist Dr. Jacob Sheppard is dedicated to helping patients achieve a beautiful, healthy smile they can feel confident about with a full range of general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services available — including porcelain veneers. Keep reading to discover how porcelain veneers can help straighten certain smiles and what other exciting enhancements this versatile treatment can create.

What do porcelain veneers do?

Porcelain veneers are exceptionally versatile and can be used to address and conceal a wide variety of cosmetic dental concerns. Rather than physically correcting an imperfection, porcelain veneers — which are thin, shell-like devices — are placed over the tooth or teeth to cover the cosmetic concerns and create a more beautiful, even smile without an extensive treatment process that compromises the natural tooth structure. Some of the most common issues that can be concealed with porcelain veneers include:

• Yellow teeth
• Stained teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Dull teeth
• Chipped tooth
• Cracked tooth
• Gap between teeth
• Short or small teeth
• Uneven tooth length
• Worn teeth
• Aged teeth

Can porcelain veneers straighten your teeth?

Many patients are surprised to learn that porcelain veneers can actually be an appropriate option for addressing mild cases of tooth misalignment and even rotation. Again, rather than manipulating the actual teeth into alignment — as would be done with braces or Six Month Smiles® clear aligners, for example — dental veneer treatment works to create a straighter and smoother smile by covering the teeth with custom-fit porcelain veneers. To determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for porcelain veneers to straighten crooked teeth, Dr. Sheppard will perform an examination of your teeth and discuss your goals. For patients with more extensive misalignment, orthodontic treatment may be recommended prior to (or instead of) veneers.

How do I care for my porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are also a convenient option for patients hoping for a low-maintenance smile upgrade, in that they do not require special care beyond what’s needed for natural teeth. Additionally, porcelain veneers are highly durable and stain-resistant. Still, there are some important things you can do to ensure your veneers stay looking their best for as long as possible, including:

• Brush and floss twice daily
• Rinse with mouthwash
• Keep your regularly scheduled dental cleanings and exams
• Minimize consumption of staining beverages, including coffee and red wine
• Brush or rinse after drinking a staining beverage when possible
• Do not bite your nails
• Do not chew ice
• Avoid gummy, sticky, and overly crunchy or hard foods

With these healthy habits and porcelain veneer care tips, you can set yourself up to enjoy years’ or even decades’ worth of a stunning smile you can feel confident about.

Ready to give your smile a stunning new upgrade? Consider porcelain veneers in Midlothian, VA

If you have mildly crooked teeth, staining, chips, or another cosmetic dental concern you’d like to conceal to get the brighter, more beautiful smile you’ve been dreaming of, porcelain veneers may be right for you. Don’t live with a lackluster smile any longer. Call Sycamore Family Dentistry to schedule your consultation and exam for porcelain dental veneers with Midlothian, VA cosmetic dentist Dr. Jacob Sheppard, and get one step closer to loving your smile.