When researching ways to align your smile, you may have heard of treatments like veneers and Invisalign. Although very different, both can make noticeable changes in your gorgeous grin, closing gaps and making your teeth appear more evenly spaced and flush. However, these two treatments also have some key contrasts which could affect your decision about which one to get. Here’s a closer look at both, and how you can choose which treatment is right for you!
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells (usually made of porcelain) that fit over your existing teeth to improve their shape, size, spacing and color. They are stain resistant, can withstand eating a full diet, and with proper care can last for 20 or more years. While they cannot change the alignment of your teeth, they can cover small gaps and make them appear more evenly spaced. Because of this, and their quick (usually about two weeks) turnaround, they have earned the nickname “instant orthodontics.”
To get veneers, your teeth must be in good health. Because your dentist will need to remove a small amount of enamel from each tooth receiving a restoration, this procedure is considered irreversible, and you’ll need to either redo it or switch to dental crowns when the time comes to replace them.
Please be aware that in most cases, dental insurance will not cover the cost of veneers, as it is considered a cosmetic dentistry treatment, and most plans don’t cover aesthetic procedures. Furthermore, they are generally more expensive than Invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
Conversely, unlike veneers, Invisalign physically (and permanently) realigns your teeth. In fact, as long as you are compliant with your retainer use following treatment, your results should never need to be redone, and the new positioning of your smile should last a lifetime. Invisalign is often a better option for more severe dental issues like crowding, a bad bite, and even crooked teeth, however, it cannot repair chipped or “too small” teeth, nor can it change their shape or color. For those types of modifications, veneers are likely a better option.
Invisalign treatment typically takes about 18 months to complete and may be partially covered by your dental insurance. It is also generally less expensive than veneers, even without dental insurance coverage.
Which Treatment is Right for Me?
The best way to determine if you would be better suited to Invisalign or veneers is to schedule a consultation with your dentist. At this appointment, she will evaluate your smile and make recommendations based on your oral health and specific concerns.
Also, in case you’re wondering, yes, it is possible to get both veneers and Invisalign, but you’ll likely want to get Invisalign first. Then, once your smile is positioned correctly, you can improve each individual tooth as needed!
Remember, while both veneers and Invisalign can improve the appearance of your smile, each treatment has its own specific benefits that may be better suited to your oral health goals. To learn more about which option is best for you, schedule a consultation with your dentist today!
About Our Practice
At Toothbar, we know how important it is to have a healthy, beautiful smile. That’s why we’re proud to offer a variety of dental treatments to improve the appearance of your gorgeous grin, including both Invisalign and veneers. If you’re ready to align your teeth but aren’t sure which treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your goals. We can help determine which treatment will help achieve the look you desire based on your unique needs. To book your visit, contact us today via our website, or by calling 512-607-4268.