Porcelain veneers are made of thin, tooth-colored porcelain and cemented over the surface of your existing teeth. These cosmetic restorations can hide many dental issues and improve your smile. However, they are unable to correct the underlying causes of your dental issues, such as poor bite mechanics. Learn when porcelain veneers would be a good solution for masking the appearance of crooked teeth.
Porcelain Veneers vs. Orthodontics
Porcelain veneers can improve the look of the following cosmetic issues:
- Minor crookedness or misalignment
- Gaps or spaces between teeth
- Rotated or misshapen teeth
Often referred to as “instant orthodontics,” it’s important to note that porcelain veneers do not act in the same way orthodontic treatments do. Porcelain veneers merely camouflage orthodontic problems. They do not change the positioning of your teeth. While they can make your smile look straighter, the teeth underneath your veneers will remain crooked.
As a result, porcelain veneers are recommended for aesthetic rather than functional concerns. If you have more moderate to severe crooked teeth caused by one of the following problems, Dr. Chung may suggest braces, Invisalign® or another form of orthodontics:
- Malocclusion
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
During your initial consultation, Dr. Chung will examine your mouth to determine whether veneers or orthodontics are right for you.
Candidates for Porcelain Veneers
You’re likely a good candidate for porcelain veneers if you have:
- A single crooked or rotated tooth
- Small gaps or spaces between teeth
- Minimal overcrowding
Since porcelain veneers only change the appearance of your teeth, they work best in the front of your mouth. If your crooked teeth are difficult to clean or affect your bite, orthodontics will likely offer a more permanent solution.
You will need to have healthy teeth and gums before proceeding with porcelain veneers. They are not recommended for patients who have gum disease.
To know for sure if you’re a good candidate for porcelain veneers, schedule a consultation at our office.
Benefits of Porcelain Veneers
Dr. Chung customizes your porcelain veneers to match the shape, size and color of your existing teeth. Once bonded to your teeth, they provide durable, long-lasting results that look and feel natural.
In addition to a straighter smile, your porcelain veneers will:
- Give you whiter, brighter teeth
- Protect your teeth against future discoloration and decay
- Strengthen and stabilize weak teeth
While orthodontics often takes one to two years to complete, porcelain veneers require only two office visits. After your initial evaluation, Dr. Chung will take impressions of your teeth that will be used to create your customized veneers. Depending on your needs, he may fit you with temporary veneers at this time. During your second visit, he will shape and bond your veneers to your natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are an excellent option if you would rather not commit to the lengthy treatment process associated with orthodontics
Why Choose Dr. Chung
Dr. Chung is a graduate of the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, and he specializes in cosmetic dentistry. He has also studied at the Institute for Facial Aesthetics to further hone his cosmetic dentistry skills. With a passion for helping his patients feel confident about their smiles, he will take the time needed to determine the best option for your crooked teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Northern Virginia
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Chung, call Softouch Dental Care at 703-319-6990. We serve patients in Oakton, Vienna, McLean and nearby areas of Northern Virginia.
