If you have a degree of dental misalignment that is affecting your confidence, it is only natural if you are thinking about your options for making over your smile. Many patients choose Invisalign to move their teeth into the proper positions, while others opt for veneers to disguise their smile’s imperfections. Which should you choose? To help you make your decision, let’s talk about some of the primary differences between Invisalign and veneers.
Why Might You Choose Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear aligners to apply pressure to teeth and correct dental misalignment over time. Some of its primary advantages include:
- With proper maintenance, the results can be permanent.
- The aligners are discreet. They are not completely invisible, but they do not call a lot of attention to themselves.
- Because the aligners are removable, they won’t force you to adhere to any dietary restrictions.
- Invisalign can address most mild to moderate cases of gapped teeth, crowded teeth, bite problems, and other common orthodontic problems.
- Straightening your teeth can bring significant oral health benefits.
Why Might You Choose Veneers?
Veneers are thin porcelain shells that get placed on the fronts of teeth in order to disguise their flaws. They can work well to hide some cases of minor dental misalignment, such as a small gap between the front teeth. However, their focus is purely on aesthetics, not on improving oral health. Veneers might be right for you if:
- The problems with your teeth are mostly cosmetic. Veneers can make things like stains, chips, and cracks completely disappear. You can get a veneer for a single tooth or invest in several veneers to totally change your look.
- You are looking for a long-term smile makeover. Veneers typically last for 10 – 15 years or longer before they need to be replaced.
- You want almost instant results. For most patients, veneers can be placed in just two appointments.
Designing Your Smile Makeover Plan
Your cosmetic dentist in Cary is the best person to help you decide whether porcelain veneers or Invisalign is a better fit for you. After learning about your goals and examining your teeth, they will make a treatment recommendation. You might even choose to undergo both treatments. First, you may complete Invisalign to get your teeth into their proper places, and then you can later use veneers to put the perfect finishing touch on your look.
Both Invisalign and porcelain veneers are powerful treatments that have the potential to transform your smile and boost your confidence. The one that is best for you depends on your unique circumstances.
Meet the Author
Dr. Bikram Singh obtained his Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree in 1996 while he was still living in India. In 2002, he obtained his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. In the years since then, he has helped countless patients experience the benefits of a transformed smile. Invisalign and porcelain veneers are among the many services that he offers. To request an appointment with him or learn more about how he may be able to serve you, contact our practice at 919-460-5454.