Charles A. Porter III, DDS

Instant Orthodontics: A Straighter Smile in Two Office Visits

Jun 21, 2014 @ 09:00 AM — by Dr. Charlie Porter
Tagged with: Porcelain Veneers Cosmetic Dentistry

Even if you have structurally sound teeth and good bite alignment, crooked and gapped teeth can take a huge toll on your smile and your confidence. Fortunately, at our Charlotte practice, we offer instant orthodontics, using porcelain veneers to quickly correct the appearance of slightly crooked teeth. Thanks to this innovative cosmetic treatment, you can enjoy a stunning smile without the embarrassment and inconvenience of traditional braces. To learn more about instant orthodontics and to find out if it is right for you, contact Charles A. Porter, III, D.D.S.

What Is Instant Orthodontics?

Instant orthodontics is designed to enhance the cosmetic appearance of your smile. During your initial consultation, Dr. Porter will closely examine your dental alignment to create a personalized treatment plan that will address your specific needs. Porcelain veneers are the primary component of instant orthodontic treatment; these fabrications can be placed on the teeth to make the teeth appear more uniform and aligned.

What Are Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin pieces of porcelain shaped like the front of your teeth. Before placing veneers, Dr. Porter will create a highly personalized treatment plan, and he will show you a digital mockup, so you can see what you will look like following your treatment. Then he will remove a tiny amount of enamel from the front of your teeth. After this step, he will take impressions of your teeth. If you choose traditional veneers, he will send this data to a dental lab, where ceramists will create your veneers. You may also select CEREC® (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) restorations, which will be fabricated here in the office. No matter which one you choose, you will receive veneers that match the shape and tint of your teeth.

When your veneers are finished, Dr. Porter will carefully etch the front of your teeth and attach them with dental resin. Dr. Porter also offers no-prep veneers, which do not involve enamel removal. However, he typically prefers traditional veneers, since he feels that they offer a more lifelike appearance.

What Problems Can Veneers Correct?

Veneers have an impressive array of applications, which is one reason that they have become an increasingly popular procedure in recent years. They are often used to conceal stains, cracks, and chips. However, Dr. Porter can also use them to correct problems that, in the past, could only be addressed with extensive orthodontic treatment. In many situations, veneers can close gaps between your teeth, change the appearance of slightly crooked teeth, and enhance the shape of uneven teeth.

Am I a Candidate for Instant Orthodontics?

Veneers can’t correct bite alignment issues such as overbites, underbites, or crossbites. These conditions will not only affect your appearance; they could also cause serious oral health issues such as bruxism or TMJ disorder. Therefore, if you suffer from malocclusion, you may want to seek traditional orthodontic treatment. However, if you have a healthy bite, but you are embarrassed by crooked or gapped teeth, instant orthodontics may be a great treatment for you.

Schedule Your Consultation

You shouldn’t have to live with the embarrassment of crooked teeth. To learn more about instant orthodontics and to find out if this treatment is a good option for you, call our office today.