[Health Column] I've already had veneers; is it possible to get braces?
Hello, this is Director Oh Su-hwan of Smile D Dental Clinic.
There are many people who previously received veneers for a beautiful smile but are now concerned as their teeth have gradually become misaligned over time.
I want to receive orthodontic treatment again, but, "Do I have to remove all the existing veneers?", "What about the cost and pain?" There are quite a few cases where people feel anxious, saying things like that.
Today, I will provide clear solutions for each case regarding whether orthodontic treatment is possible even with veneers.
So, shall we start by addressing the key question that many of you are curious about? 🤔
1️⃣ Do I absolutely have to remove braces after veneers?
✨ It is reasonable to accurately diagnose the current situation and proceed selectively with only the necessary parts.
To start with the conclusion, having veneers does not mean that orthodontic treatment is impossible.
However, the treatment strategy simply varies depending on the patient's dental condition. We must accurately diagnose the condition rather than unconditionally removing the entire tooth.
One example is a case where the laminate prosthesis itself is firmly attached, but only the lower teeth are slightly misaligned.
⚠️ Rather than blindly removing all the prosthetics, Please consult a specialist first to see if there are any parts that can be preserved.
The treatment method varies completely depending on the condition. Which category does my tooth fall into? 👇
2️⃣ What are the situational treatment cases that suit me?
✨ It proceeds in three directions depending on the condition of the prosthesis and the purpose of occlusion.
🔸 If the laminate is in good condition (conservative correction)
If you are satisfied with the color or shape of the existing laminates and there are no significant issues such as fractures, correction is possible while maintaining them.
You can attach orthodontic brackets through tooth surface treatment, or correct only the tooth alignment using clear aligners.
🔸 When partial replacement of the laminate is required
This is a case where you are dissatisfied because part of your tooth is fractured or your gums are in poor condition.
We remove only the problematic laminates and proceed with orthodontic treatment, then fabricate new laminates only for that specific area after the correction.
🔸 Cases where a complete redesign is required
It is necessary not just for simple tooth movement, but when the occlusion itself is not harmonious, such as in cases of protruding teeth, open bite, or facial asymmetry.
The laminates must be removed to check the original alignment and condition of the teeth.
If necessary, the original tooth positions are restored using temporary teeth before proceeding with orthodontic treatment, and finally, the aesthetic prosthetics are redesigned.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. If braces are attached to teeth that have been laminated, won't they fall off easily?
A1. Of course, it requires more caution than attaching it to natural teeth. However, since current dental technology allows for sufficient surface treatment to ensure attachment, you do not need to worry too much.
Q2. Is more tooth reduction involved when removing laminates?
A2. The key is to avoid causing additional damage to teeth that have already been prepared for veneers. We delicately remove existing prosthetics and safely proceed with orthodontic treatment while protecting the teeth using temporary teeth if necessary.
Q3. The treatment period and cost are very burdensome.
A3. 'Selective redesign' tailored to your oral condition is much more efficient than redoing the entire set. Rather than indiscriminate replacement, it is important to determine the scope of treatment in consultation with a specialist, considering overall facial harmony and functional occlusion.
🎯 Conclusion: A thoughtful choice for a healthy smile
📌 Key Points: Just because your teeth are slightly misaligned, you do not necessarily need to get braces or, conversely, insist on veneers.
✨ To maintain a healthy and attractive smile line even 10 or 20 years from now Clearly understanding the current tooth alignment and occlusion status This is the priority.
🩺 If you are currently concerned about your tooth alignment, we recommend that you consult thoroughly with an orthodontist, including whether you can maintain your veneers. An accurate diagnosis is the first step to achieving satisfactory results.
Smile D Dental Clinic
Chief Director Oh Su-hwan
- Graduated from Yonsei University College of Dentistry
- Major in Orthodontics, Yonsei University Graduate School of Dentistry
- Ministry of Health and Welfare certified orthodontist
- Regular member of the Korean Association of Orthodontists
- Completed internship and residency in Orthodontics at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital
- International member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO)
- International member of the World Federation of Correctional Organizations (WFO)
- Regular member of the Korean Association of Orthodontists
- Certified by the Korean Association of Orthodontists
View more expert columns by Dr. Oh Su-hwan, Director of Smile D Dental Clinic
🔗 [Expert Column] Clear Aligners: Wire-Free Orthodontic Treatment—Can It Really Be Unnoticeable?
🔗 [Expert Column] No-Prep Dental Laminates: Is It Really 'No Prep'? A Summary of Key Points You Must Know
🔗 [Expert Column] How to Restore Gum Health - Confusing Brushing and Mouthwash Usage. Here's How to Do It
🔗 [Expert Column] Laminate Procedures: It Effectively Suits Only the Right People! (feat. No-Removal & Minimal-Removal Laminates)









