If you have gapped, jagged, crooked or discolored teeth, then you more than likely want to do something about your smile so you can move past the problems that come with a smile that makes you feel self-conscious about your appearance. This article will introduce you to a couple different options you may find available to you and give you an inside look at what each option can offer you.

Porcelain veneers

If you have cosmetic issues with your teeth, your dentist may suggest porcelain veneers. This is due to the fact that they can be used to correct a number of cosmetic issues while they offer your teeth protection and added strength. They are made in a lab where an impression of your mouth is used to ensure a proper fit. This impression will be made while you are in the dentist's office at your first visit by biting down on a mold the dentist puts in your mouth.

Porcelain veneers are made of material that is matched to the color of the rest of your teeth. However, if your reason for getting them is to correct a discoloration of your teeth, then the material used will purposefully be whiter. When the veneers come in, they will look like shells. The dentist will have ground down your teeth to make room for them during your first visit. Therefore, when you come in to have them put on, the dentist can add bonding material to your natural teeth that will adhere the veneers and push them into place.

Snap-in-place teeth

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth, but you aren't currently in the position to have any work done to them, then there is another option. You can have snap-in teeth created to fit over your natural teeth that will give them a look you will be happy with. These teeth are made of durable material, also using an impression of your teeth to make sure they fit. To put them in, slide them over your teeth and push them securely in place. Since they offer such a snug fit, they will feel natural and no one will be able to tell they aren't real.

This option is more affordable than most others, but the appliances will require a bit of extra care and maintenance. You won't want to eat most foods with them in because there is the chance hard foods can damage them. You will also need to remove them to clean them and at night while you are sleeping.

Now that you have learned about a couple of the methods for fixing the appearance of your teeth, you are on your way to having the teeth you always wanted. Contact a company like Louisville Family Dental for more information.