Are dental veneers recommended for patients with bruxism, who aren't happy with their smile? What are more alternatives? (photo)

Hello Katelyn,My first recommendation would be to properly use your night guard and consider meeting with your physician to discuss ways to reduce your grinding.  Most often, bruxism is related to high stress.  Too bad there is no magic to decrease personal stress, but there are ways to manage stress with a combo of meds and lifestyle changes.  My second recommendation would be to get crowns, instead of veneers because you would likely fracture or dislodge your veneers over a short period of time.  Good luck and I hope this helps. Follow me if you have more questions.Sarah Thompson, DMD

If you are a bruxer and have not broken the habit you are not a good candidate for veneers. In fact any new restoration that adds back worn tooth structure without proper restoration of your entire bite will inevitable fail by breaking, popping off or further wearing the opposing teeth. You may be in need of a smile and bite make-over to have a healthy and attractive set of teeth. Discuss this with your dentist or seek a second opinion with an experienced dentist.

I do not think so. On those cases if veneers are part of the plan, the first thing to consider is the posterior bite. If you are able to restore that height, then veneers can be an option. If not, you will continue grinding and bitting strong, with or without a night guard. Remember that this is due to the masticatory muscles, that keep in constant stress, so this will continue anyway you have your own teeth ,veneers or crowns, but in your case, crowns must be the best solution. Hope this helps, Thank you