Is My Dentist Offering Me The Correct Treatment For My Underbite?

Q.
Hi, I have a underbite I think so when I smile I grin instead of smiling. I recently had a consultation with a dentist which was a bit rushed but he said veneers would be better than a brace as my teeth are also discoloured.

Is this common as I want the correct treatment not the correct treatment for his wallet. I’m going to see another dentist for a second opinion or would an orthodontist be a better option.

I want a nice top teeth smile.

Thanks, look forward to hearing from you soon.

A.
Hi. Without seeing the situation in person I can’t really advise you properly as the term ‘underbite’ could be referring to several things. It sounds like you’re referring to a Class III malocclusion where your lower teeth overlap your upper teeth in reverse from the norm?

If this is the case then an orthodontic solution may be the best way forward – if the teeth themselves are also not the ideal shape or colour then some kind of whitening, veneering or bonding may be an option after the orthodontics. Often having veneers as ‘instant orthodontics’ when there are bite or crowding issues that need resolved, whilst being a quick solution, can be very destructive to the underlying teeth and may also not look the best they can be.

Almost 50% of my own cosmetic dentistry cases where we place veneers, have an orthodontic component that we carry out first to ensure the teeth and bite are in the best possible place before the veneers. This results in a more ‘perfect’ finish and often means the veneers last a lot longer as the bite is not heavy on them. It also ensures that we can do the veneers with the most minimal or sometimes no preparation of the enamel. This means the teeth will be healthier in the long term and the risk of nerve damage from the treatment is reduced.

My advice is to seek a consultation and examination from a cosmetic dentist who can also provide you with orthodontics as well, then you will be able to get all the possible options. An orthodontist may not be able to advise you on the veneers/cosmetic dentistry options with any degree of accuracy

Hope that helps?

Regards.

Dr Mark Hughes Harley Street Dental Studio 52 Harley Street, London W1G 9PY Web: www.harleystreetdentalstudio.com Tel: 020 7636 5981 View My Profile Dr Hughes

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