If you feel self-conscious about your somewhat crooked or gapped grin, you’re not alone. Resources report that an estimated 1 in 5 Americans have undergone one or more cosmetic dental procedures to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence.
For example, your provider offers options like porcelain veneers and Invisalign to give you the perfectly even smile you’ve always dreamed of. If you’re unsure which treatment is right for you, continue reading to learn about both options to make an informed decision!
What Are Veneers?
Porcelain veneers are thin shells made from durable ceramic that are customized to be the right shape, size, and hue to match your natural teeth. Then, they’re cemented to the front surfaces of your enamel to mask aesthetic concerns, like stubborn stains, chips, cracks, and mild misalignments.
It’s worth noting that for veneers to fit correctly, your dentist must remove a thin amount of enamel from your teeth, which doesn’t regenerate. Thankfully, your restorations are coated with a glaze durable enough to resist breaking and discoloration to provide an extra layer of protection that can last 25+ years with the right care.
What is Invisalign?
Veneers can perfect the outward appearance of your grin, but they don’t exert any additional force over your pearly whites to shift them. Unfortunately, overcrowded teeth that overlap can be harder to clean because you can’t reach all the surfaces, increasing your vulnerability to decay and disease.
Those who want to straighten their teeth rather than cover them might benefit from Invisalign. Unlike standard braces, this alternative orthodontic method relies on transparent plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth to shift them over a designated period. You must wear them for 20 to 22 hours daily to keep your teeth from reverting. Then, after one to two weeks, you’ll be given the next set in the series to account for the ongoing movement of your teeth.
Which Treatment is Best for Me?
Before proceeding with one option or the other, you must consult your dentist to determine whether you’re a good candidate. They’ll examine your mouth and discuss your goals and concerns, then recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on their findings.
For instance, if your teeth are slightly gapped and also have stains or other minor surface damage, they might recommend veneers to cover multiple flaws simultaneously. However, if they’re concerned about cavities or gum disease due to overcrowding, they might suggest Invisalign to fix the root problem.
Either way, your dentist can help improve your confidence by addressing your concerns regarding your crooked smile!
Meet the Author
Dr. Jeffrey Skupny has nearly 20 years of experience helping people improve their lives by enhancing their oral health. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, among other organizations. Today, he combines a caring approach with state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate, long-lasting treatments tailored to your unique needs, including cosmetic procedures. You can request an appointment on the website or call (239) 261-5566.