Which should I do first, braces or veneers?

I feel like my two front teeth need to be smaller. The orthodontist said she would be pushing them back up into the gums so they wouldn't look so large after my braces came off. But I still feel that they will be too large. I'm also interested veneers to treat stains which make the color of my teeth uneven, as well as small ridges. Should I get my braces on first or address the fact that I want my front teeth to be sized down and smoother? Would it be better to get the veneers after the braces?

4 answers to “Which should I do first, braces or...”

A: Braces before veneers

James J. Awbrey IV, DMD

The teeth should be aligned first before placing your veneers. Aligning the teeth first will minimize the amount of tooth structure removed before placing the veneers.

A: Braces first or Veneers first?

Susan Goode Estep, DMD

The ideal treatment is to do braces/Invisalign in phase I to get your teeth positioned so that I can be the most conservative with my porcelain. Then move to phase II - porcelain veneers.

A: Braces before veneers

Jennifer Jablow, DDS

If teeth are misaligned,or too far erupted then it is best to move them into proper arch form before veneers are done. This will result in less tooth structure being removed when veneers are prepared.

A: Generally, braces before Veneers is best

Lance Timmerman, DMD

The advantage of braces before veneers is the position and angulation of the teeth can be corrected and idealized.  Be sure to let the orthodontist know that you plan on veneers at the end, as that may change some approaches to treatment. Well placed teeth allow the veneers to be as conservative as... more

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