At the Lansing cosmetic dentistry practice of Dr. Scott Stone, there are few treatments as versatile and cosmetically advantageous as porcelain veneers. The centerpiece of the most transformative smile makeovers, porcelain veneers are custom-crafted to blend seamlessly into a smile. They can be used to conceal chips, cracks, discoloration, and gaps between teeth. Because they are made of porcelain, which mimics the light-reflecting properties of tooth enamel, veneers look entirely natural in terms of the shape, size, color, and texture of surrounding teeth.
In addition to providing numerous cosmetic benefits, porcelain veneers can also be used to restore oral health in certain cases. Often referred to as “instant orthodontics,” porcelain veneers can help to improve minor alignment and bite problems without the need for traditional braces or Invisalign® invisible braces. At our cosmetic dentistry practice in Lansing, instant orthodontics provides our patients with an opportunity to restore both health and beauty to their smiles.
How Porcelain Veneers Act as an Orthodontic Treatment
Even minor flaws in the alignment or shape of the teeth can have a serious effect on a patient’s oral health. Likewise, teeth that are separated by gaps or that are unevenly spaced can weaken a patient’s bite. These are issues that are normally resolved through treatment with appliances such as metal braces or, more recently, clear plastic aligners.
In some cases, however, it may be possible to resolve the problems with porcelain veneers. For instance, if the upper teeth are too short to meet properly with the lower teeth, porcelain veneers can be used to extend their length. At our office in Lansing, porcelain veneers can also be used to widen teeth so that they fill gaps. This helps to prevent the teeth from drifting out of their optimal position. Porcelain veneers can also be used to make the teeth more uniform, and even strengthen weakened teeth.
Candidacy for Instant Orthodontics
Instant orthodontics with porcelain veneers is not a suitable treatment for everyone. Patients with more extensive orthodontic issues would be better served with Invisalign® or traditional braces. Many patients choose to undergo traditional orthodontic treatment first and then be fitted with porcelain veneers.
Porcelain veneers are often combined with other treatments such as dental crowns and bridges. In severe cases, full mouth reconstruction may be necessary. Full mouth reconstruction may or may not include the treatment of orthodontic issues, as necessary.
Benefits of Instant Orthodontics
One of the chief benefits of instant orthodontics is suggested in the name of the procedure – it is indeed instant. Rather than having to undergo months of treatment, patients who undergo instant orthodontics will emerge from the placement of their veneers with improved oral appearance.
Another benefit of instant orthodontics is that patients will also receive all of the cosmetic benefits associated with porcelain veneers. Their smiles are not only healthier, but more radiant and youthful.
Contact Dr. Scott Stone Today
If you would like to learn more about porcelain veneers or to find out whether you are a suitable candidate for instant orthodontics, please contact Lansing cosmetic dentist Scott Stone today.