Will Porcelain Veneers Correct My Overbite?

My dentist wants me to get braces before porcelain veneers due to my overbite. Otherwise, my dentist said she could do crowns if I refused the braces. Why should I get my healthy teeth ground down for crowns? Do I really need braces? Whichever cosmetic dentistry I get must hide tetracycline stains on my teeth, so I am nervous about how this will unfold. Can you tell me any other options my dentist may have missed? Thank you. Chelsea from Maine

Chelsea,

Thank you for your questions. Although Dr. Sirin would need to examine your teeth before defining treatment options, we can say that dental crowns are an aggressive way to treat healthy teeth. You are wise to avoid them.

Your dentist’s options of braces or crowns imply that she is not skilled in using porcelain veneers to correct an overbite. We recommend getting a second opinion from a cosmetic dentist.

Porcelain Veneers vs. Braces for Overbite?

Clear aligner, such as Candid, can improve overbite

Orthodontic treatment corrects overbite. You would not need braces and porcelain veneers for overbite; severe overbite requires braces, such as Candid®. Porcelain veneers can correct mild cases of overbite. Otherwise, you can expect limited results.

Concealing Tetracycline Stains

A skilled cosmetic dentist and dental ceramist can use porcelain veneers to hide tetracycline stains. Only dentists with advanced training and an artistic eye understand how to manipulate the color and translucence of the veneers to prevent them from looking opaque or pasty.

Get a Second Opinion

Look for a skilled cosmetic dentist with experience in orthodontics and porcelain veneers. After an examination and x-rays, the dentist will discuss your options. The dentist will explain the result you can expect if you decide against braces for your overbite. Re

Best wishes on restoring your smile.

Dr. Steve Sirin, an Elgin, Illinois dentist, sponsors this post.