Porcelain Veneers vs. Invisalign®: Which Is Right for You?
If you’ve always dreamed of making your smile the best it can be, but aren’t sure which cosmetic option is right for you, then Schaffer Dental Excellence can help! Many patients have imperfect smiles that they would like to improve, but they aren’t certain whether porcelain veneers or Invisalign® is the right choice.
In order to decide, you’ll need to know a little more about how both treatments work, what they’re able to do, and then consider the aspects of your smile you’d like to improve.
All About Invisalign®
Invisalign® treatment works similarly to metal braces, except the patient wears a series of specially designed trays that gradually shift teeth into proper alignment. For most patients, the entire course of treatment with Invisalign® requires about 12 months. Patients then need to wear a retainer intermittently to prevent teeth from moving back out of alignment.
What Does Invisalign® Treat?
Invisalign® is designed to correct teeth alignment. As a result, it can fix gaps and straighten crooked teeth. This treatment is also beneficial for correcting a patient’s occlusion (bite), when an overbite, underbite, or crossbite is present. Bite correction can also address the painful symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. Invisalign cannot correct discoloration, chips, cracks, or change the apparent size or shape of teeth.
All About Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers typically require just two appointments: one for consultation and design and the second for placement. Porcelain veneers are a thin layer of porcelain that is adhered to the front of a patient’s teeth. They are a permanent treatment because, in order to achieve a proper fit, a portion of the patient’s enamel is removed before placing veneers. If properly cared for, they can last up to ten years and easily repaired and/or replaced.
What Do Veneers Treat?
Veneers like pearly masks for teeth, which means that they cover discoloration, cracks, and chips. They can also correct the apparent size or shape of teeth. Veneers have the ability to close in slight gaps without the need to realign teeth. They cannot straighten severely crooked teeth or correct a person’s bite.
Schedule a Smile Consultation with Dr. Schaffer Today
If you’d like to improve the cosmetic appearance of your teeth, but aren’t sure where to begin, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Schaffer at Schaffer Dental Excellence. We’ll take a look at your teeth and your bite and talk with you about your smile goals. Then we can work with you to determine the best dental treatment plan to help you smile with confidence. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
