Hi there, I'm considering veneers instead of braces and laser whitening..

I'm just too old to be wearing braces, they are embarrassing, and I don't have time for so many doctor's visits. And the whitening, I was told I couldn't do because they have to hold your mouth open and shove stuff in there for an hour or two and my gag reflex would make me vomit. So, I've decided maybe veneers are the way to go. But I have some questions.

*Can they go over slightly crooked teeth?
*How long do they last?
*How are normal dental procedures performed with them?
*What is the average cost?

Now, please feel free to offer any advice and information you know.

THANK YOU!

Hello ChiMomma,

Veneers and/or crowns have been used for years now to aesthetically straighten front teeth.

Veneers can last a lifetime if you take care of them. You won't want to be chewing on pens, opening bobbypins, holding straight pins between your teeth as you can cause them to chip. Depending on your bite, you may also want to avoid biting into apples and carrots with them for the same reason.

Placing a veneer is similar to a false fingernail. The surface of the tooth will be roughened so it will allow for enough bonding material to hold the veneer to the tooth. The process will take at least 2 appointments. Some dentists will have the veneers come back for you to check shape, size and shade before the final glaze is placed. If there is anything you want changed about them, that is the time to do it!

Cost per veneer here in Canada is $500+ per veneer.

If you have any bite issues, your best bet is orthodontics though.

There's no bite issues, just tiny bit crooked smile... Thank you for the answers.

They offer clear braces now that you can hardly see and maybe you won't be as self conscious about it. Personally, I don't think braces are embarrassing!