Veneers instead of braces for crossbite, top-back teeth? (photos)

Question

I have a crossbite on 4 of my top back teeth i am wondering if i could get cosmetic work like veneers instead of braces. images are attached

Beau Keller, DDS · Answer

Typically, when a crossbite involves the premolars and molars like yours does, I would recommend speaking with an orthodontist first. Ask how confident they are that orthodontics can correct the crossbite, whether they would recommend traditional braces or Invisalign, and approximately how long they expect treatment to take.
That said, it is sometimes possible to improve a crossbite significantly with porcelain veneers and/or crowns, depending on how severe the bite discrepancy is.
In a case like this, you would often need to treat both the upper and lower teeth because the goal is to change the apparent angulation of the teeth from both directions. For example, the upper teeth may need to be built slightly farther outward, while the lower teeth may need to be brought slightly inward with the restorations.
On some of the back teeth, crowns may be more appropriate than veneers because a larger change in tooth position or angulation can require more reduction of the natural tooth. Veneers work best when the amount of directional change needed is more conservative.
The important thing to understand is that veneers and crowns do not actually move the roots of the teeth the way orthodontics does. They can sometimes camouflage or compensate for the crossbite by changing the shape and direction of the visible portion of the teeth. Whether that is a reasonable option in your case depends heavily on your bite, the amount of correction needed, and how much natural tooth structure would have to be removed.
If orthodontics can predictably correct the crossbite without restorative treatment, that is generally the more conservative option. If you are trying to avoid braces or Invisalign, then a cosmetic dentist experienced in complex bite changes could evaluate whether veneers, crowns, or a combination of the two could realistically improve it.

Arash Hosseini, DDS · Answer

I know social media can be convincing and make you think there is an easy way to address this, but orthodontics for this sort of cross-bite is the most ethical way to go. If you do go the veneer route first, you will run the risk of them popping off frequently. Be prepared to pay a lot of money for taking the short-cut.
Braces first, and then veneers after braces if you still want an enhanced cosmetic appearance.

Baran Bardakci, DDS · Answer

It should be zirconia crowns, not veneers. If it is done on both the upper and lower teeth, proper occlusion will be achieved.

YeahSmile - Cancun - Account Suspended · Answer

If you have a crossbite on your back teeth, veneers are not a suitable solution. Veneers are purely cosmetic and only improve the appearance of teeth; they cannot fix the underlying alignment issue caused by a crossbite.
A crossbite can lead to uneven wear, jaw problems, and even damage to your teeth over time if left untreated. The best solution is orthodontic treatment, like braces or clear aligners, which can properly align your bite. Once the crossbite is corrected, you could consider veneers for cosmetic enhancement if needed.
Addressing the root cause (the crossbite) first is essential for the long-term health and function of your teeth. I recommend consulting with an orthodontist to explore your options.
Dr. Miller Vieira Paula

Veneers instead of braces for crossbite, top-back teeth? (photos)

Answers (4)

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