When you look at celebrities’ smiles, they are perfectly aligned. In some cases, the star has had veneers placed over their teeth. In others, they have undergone Invisalign treatment. For your own smile, you aren’t sure which one will give you the results you’re looking for.
While both veneers and Invisalign involve permanent changes to your teeth, they are quite unique in how they accomplish results. Keep reading to learn the differences between them and when each one would be the right option.
Treatment with Veneers
Before veneers can be made in the lab, the front of the teeth must be prepped by removal of a small layer of enamel. Without this step, there wouldn’t be enough room for the veneers, and they would look artificial inside your mouth. Once the front enamel is reduced, impressions are taken of the upper and lower teeth, which are sent to the lab for the technician to make custom veneers.
Within a few weeks, the veneers are complete and sent back to the dental office, where they are affixed to the front of your teeth. Instantly, your smile is transformed!
When Choosing Veneers Is Best
Did you know that veneers are sometimes referred to as “instant orthodontics”? Veneers can be used to close small gaps or even correct slight misalignment!
In some cases, intensive shifting of the teeth isn’t necessary. If the problem is minor enough, there should be no reason to undergo months of Invisalign treatment. Instead, veneers can be fabricated to cover the small spaces between teeth or make tiny changes to the orientation of teeth—all within just a few weeks—provided that the changes are minimal.
Treatment with Invisalign
When you think of straightening your teeth, you probably think of metal brackets and wires, but that’s not the only way to do it! Invisalign clear aligners fit over your teeth and gently shift them into ideal position, using the similar principles as traditional braces without the visual distractions.
When Choosing Invisalign Is Best
Compared to veneers, Invisalign can treat many more alignment issues. In fact, these clear aligners can be used in mild to moderate cases and can even correct bite alignment. Much more subtle than traditional braces, Invisalign often can’t be seen when worn, allowing you to maintain your usual appearance while your smile is being perfected. After the teeth have shifted, which usually requires between 6 and 18 months, your whole, natural teeth look perfectly straight.
Ultimately, the decision between veneers and Invisalign is between you and your dentist. Together, you can determine which treatment would best address your issues and would give you the smile you’ve always wanted.
About the Practice
At Boyles General Dentistry & Implant Center, we put your needs and goals above everything else. Dr. Franklin Boyles and Dr. Stephen Boyles are both Masters of the Academy of General Dentistry, which means they have achieved qualifications that most dentists do not. We are happy to offer both veneers and Invisalign and work with each patient to create a unique, personalized treatment plan. To schedule an appointment with us, just contact our Midland office at 432-685-7011 or go to our Contact Us page.