Are your teeth slightly misaligned or crooked? Do you want a solution that will create an even, uniform aesthetic? While there are many treatment options available to fix this type of problem, you may be wondering about the difference between Invisalign and veneers. Which one is best for straightening teeth and giving you the new and improved look you desire? Before you decide, hear from a local dentist who shares the benefits of both and how to know which one is right for you.
Why Choose Veneers?
These thin sheets of porcelain and customized to fit over the front of your teeth and cover any flaw or imperfection that may exist. Considered to be one of the most versatile cosmetic solutions available, veneers can do everything from change the color and/or size of your teeth to eliminate gaps. While it does require removing a small portion of the enamel from each tooth (that will be fitted with a veneer) and a few trips to the dentist’s office, veneers can last a decade or more with proper care.
There are numerous advantages to choosing veneers, such as:
- Versatility
- Long-lasting
- Better protection for eroded enamel
- Boost confidence
- Improve aesthetics
If you are considering veneers to fix your crooked or misaligned teeth, you should know that it is best to opt for this solution if you have generally healthy teeth and only want to improve the look of your smile. Children and teens are not eligible for veneers because it is required for teeth to be full-size and permanent before receiving this type of treatment.
Why Choose Invisalign?
Invisalign is a great solution if you are looking to not only improve the look of your smile but also its health. Crooked or misaligned teeth can pose significant problems to your oral and facial structure over time, but by choosing Invisalign, you can see a noticeable difference in the way your teeth appear as well as how they function.
Clear aligners do require that you wear them at least 20-22 hours each day and swap them out for a new set in the series every 1-2 weeks, so there is a high level of responsibility that comes with wearing Invisalign. However, for individuals who prefer a clear, discreet solution that produces quick results, the benefits are hard to overlook, such as:
- Aligners are almost invisible
- Treatment is flexible because you can remove your trays before eating and/or drinking
- There are no food restrictions
- They are more comfortable than other orthodontic solutions (i.e. metal braces)
- You can achieve faster results
- There is no altering of your natural teeth (i.e. removal of enamel)
While Invisalign isn’t an ideal treatment for everyone, it can be a viable solution if you are committed to the process and have teeth that are only slightly crooked or misaligned.
How to Know Which is Right for You?
So, which one is the right solution for you? This may not be easy to answer without the help of a trusted professional. Scheduling a consultation with your dentist will be the best way to determine how best to treat your crooked teeth. During this visit, you can discuss your goals, what you hope to fix, and what kind of timeline you wish to achieve your new smile. Based on the information you provide, the severity of your problem teeth, and your personal preference, your dentist can formulate a customized treatment plan that will help you start seeing results as soon as possible.
If you want to take control of your oral health and change the way your teeth look and feel, make sure to schedule a consultation with your dentist. This visit can help you take the first step toward a new and improved smile.
About the Author
Dr. Mariliza LaCap has more than two decades of experience working in the oral healthcare field. Completing her Aesthetic Advantage Certification at New York University, she went on to receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Columbia University School of Dental & Oral Surgery, graduating in the top 10% of her class. Not only is she an Invisalign Elite Provider, but she is also a skilled cosmetic dentist who can offer patients an abundance of treatment options to fix imperfect smiles. Whether you need clear aligners or veneers to address your crooked teeth, she and her team can recommend the right solution for you. If you would like assistance in improving your aesthetics, contact us at (201) 453-4863.