Almost everyone wants the chance to enjoy showing off a perfectly straight set of teeth. While orthodontic treatments like Invisalign are some of the more popular solutions for this, you might be able to achieve similar results with veneers. How do these cosmetic dental treatments measure up to each other? Read on to learn about the benefits of veneers and Invisalign and how to determine which option is right for you.
What Are Veneers?
One of the most comprehensive cosmetic services out there involves using super-thin porcelain shells to cover the front side of imperfect teeth. By doing so, veneers can effectively conceal most dental flaws that you might be experiencing, including minor chips, cracks, stains, or gaps in your smile. If you’re looking for a quick but life-changing smile makeover, then veneers may be one of the most attractive solutions to consider.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic method that utilizes clear aligners to gradually shift a person’s teeth into the proper position. Not only does this treatment not use metal and bulky wires and brackets, but the custom trays are also virtually invisible, meaning you can enjoy showing off your smile throughout the process. The aligners are also removable, so you’ll be free to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks as long as you remove your Invisalign trays beforehand. By wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours every day, you might expect to achieve your lifelong results in 12 to 18 months, which is 4 months quicker than traditional braces on average!
Which Treatment Solution is Best for You?
Although Invisalign and veneers can both address minor orthodontic problems, veneers can be completed in just a couple of weeks, allowing you more convenience when it comes to timing. The porcelain shells are also able to improve the size, shape, and color of your teeth, meaning you can enjoy a variety of enhancements to your pearly whites compared to clear aligners.
While veneers are more versatile, the results will typically last around 15 years or more with proper care. The process is also irreversible, as you’ll have a small amount of your tooth enamel removed to make room for the porcelain layers, which will not regenerate. To address more complex orthodontic issues, Invisalign would be the more effective solution. Additionally, as long as you wear your retainers, your results should last the rest of your life.
Both veneers and Invisalign come with a wide range of advantages for both your smile and overall quality of life. Speak with your dentist if you’re interested in straightening your grin, and they’ll be glad to help you determine which process would best fit your dental goals!
About the Author
Dr. John H. Upton has been providing excellent and life-changing dental care for close to four decades now. As a member of several organizations, like the American Dental Association, he offers various services for those wanting to straighten their smile, including veneers and Invisalign. If you wish to know more about these two cosmetic treatments or want to schedule an initial consultation, visit his website or give him a call at 623-878-6333.