If there is anything you don’t like about your smile, be it teeth that are misaligned, discolored, or have wide gaps between them, or any other issues for that matter, here’s a variety of ways to enhance your smile. Among the several tooth restoration options available, veneers and Invisalign have been top choices for many patients.
Both veneers and Invisalign can help correct the appearance of your teeth and augment your smile. However, each one works differently and requires a different approach. If you are stuck between these two options and unable to choose, this can help guide you.
Quick Overview of Both the Options
Invisalign
Invisalign is a clear alternative to braces. An orthodontic treatment that uses clear aligners to change and correct the position of the teeth and bite, patients are given a different set of custom aligners that they have to wear over the course of the treatment. Each aligner is crafted to achieve a specific movement that moves the teeth to the desired position. At the end of the treatment, patients have a straight smile and an aligned bite with no overlapping teeth or gaps in between.
Because it offers a faster, more comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing treatment experience than traditional braces, Invisalign treatment is popularly becoming the preferred choice for many.
The downside of Invisalign treatment is the duration of the treatment. On average, the treatment may take a year and a half to complete. Progressive aligners are also to be worn for 22 hours a day, and are switched out every 1-2 weeks. As possible with any orthodontic appliance, patients may experience a little discomfort during the treatment as the teeth move into new positions.
Invisalign treatment focuses exclusively on correcting teeth and bite alignment, and does not correct other things like the color, size, and shape of the teeth.
Veneers
Veneers are thin shells, mostly made of porcelain material, that are adhered to the teeth to correct shape and appearance, and are usually used to eliminate gaps and correct overlapping or crooked teeth. However, unlike Invisalign, veneers are also a great treatment option to correct the color, size, and shape of the teeth.
Veneer treatments are typically faster than Invisalign. Patients can have their smile improved with veneers in as little as 2-3 dental appointments. Plus, not only do veneers correct a smile, but also protect the damaged teeth with a secure covering. With proper care, veneers can last several years.
The downside of veneers is the sometimes evident color differences in the teeth. Although porcelain veneers can mimic the color of your natural teeth, over time real teeth change color while veneers remain the same. So, if you don’t cover all your front teeth with veneers, you may have noticeable color differences in your smile after some years.
Conclusion
Veneers involve using a porcelain layer to mask teeth imperfection and Invisalign involves using clear aligners to straighten existing teeth. In most cases, both are good options to upgrade your smile. Depending on the condition of your teeth and the issues you want to improve, one option will likely be better than the other.
If you want to correct the misalignment of your teeth then Invisalign might be a good option. And if you want to change the shape and/or color of your teeth and are looking for quick results, then you can opt for veneers.
The best way to make an informed decision is to discuss the wishes and concerns you have regarding your oral health goals with a trained professional. If you want to learn more about veneers and Invisalign, contact the experts at South Shore Dental. Depending on your current dental condition, oral health, lifestyle, and goals, our dentists will recommend the right restoration treatment that is best suited for you. To book your appointment or to learn more, visit us online here or give us a call at (734) 479-1340 today.
