If your smile is crowded, cracked or crooked, you might be interested in the different ways to straighten teeth. With so many technological dental advancements out there, it can be hard to decide which treatment option is the best fit for you.
Some of the most popular dental treatments available are porcelain veneers, and braces. Both are very different in terms of what is involved for each, but they both produce fantastic results for those who desire a healthier, more attractive smile.
In this article we’ll look at two common methods to straighten crooked teeth and restore an even and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Orthodontics
These gradually pull your teeth back into alignment by exerting pressure on them which causes your bone to reshape, allowing the teeth to move into place. With technological advances, we have several ways we can apply the necessary pressure, from Invisailgn to traditional metal braces.
Veneers
Veneers add a thin layer of porcelain to the front of the teeth, giving an immediate and realistic whiter appearance. Because they can achieve similar effects in the space of a single treatment, porcelain veneers are sometimes called ‘instant orthodontics’.
Pros and cons of orthodontics
If your teeth are out of alignment but otherwise in good condition, it’s worth putting the time into orthodontics, rather than the quick fix of veneers. Braces work gradually over a period of months to guide the teeth back into the correct position for a straighter smile and a correctly aligned bite.
Products like Invisalign are almost invisible once in place, and unlike metal braces that are permanently fixed to your teeth, this type of retainer can be removed when necessary, which supports a wider range of lifestyles.
And the finished results will be all your own teeth, which some patients prefer.
Pros and cons of veneers
Dental veneers are a fast alternative when you want a straight, pleasant looking smile with minimum delay. They do require some preparation of the teeth to accommodate the thickness of the veneers, although the porcelain is as thin as possible.
However, one factor to be aware of is that you should view porcelain veneers as a lifetime commitment – they can’t just be removed at a later date. But if your own teeth are badly damaged, veneers can give a fast and effective cosmetic effect, without the need for false teeth or dental implants.
Combining orthodontics and veneers
In some cases the best way to fix a broken smile is to combine orthodontics and veneers.
First, braces or a retainer can be used to straighten your own teeth, so that they are more comfortable and no longer crooked. Then, porcelain veneers are added to repair any cosmetic damage, such as chips or discolouration.
Speak to the professionals
If you’re not sure which process is best for you, contact Ten Dental +Facial today to book a FREE consultation, and we’ll be happy to go into more detail with you about our diverse range of Orthodontic and Veneer treatments.