Did you know that there are a number of options available to improve the look of your smile? When it comes to correcting crooked teeth and spacing issues, many people tend to use either veneers or Invisalign treatment. Both treatments have been known to produce smiles that are properly aligned and spaced, however they accomplish this result in different ways. Therefore, when it comes to deciding which option is right for you, it is important to familiarize yourself with how veneer and Invisalign differ from one another: 

Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses a progression of clear aligners. These aligners apply a gentle pressure on the teeth in order to gradually reposition them. As the teeth move, adjustments can also be made to the bite in order to correct malocclusion such as open bites, crossbites, underbites, and overbites. 

Longevity:

Results are usually permanent with proper retainer use

Invisalign Treatment

The first step of Invisalign is to have an oral scan taken of your mouth. This scan is used in coordination with special software that can predict the end results. This software also provides your dentist with the necessary aligners needed to complete the treatment. Once the aligners have been fabricated, you will start wearing the aligner for a minimum of 22 hours a day. Ideally, you should only remove your aligner while eating, brushing, or flossing. Each aligner is worn for about a week or two before progressing to the next aligner. You will also need to visit your dentist’s office about every 8 weeks so they can monitor your progress and provide you with the next series of aligners. Most patients can expect their Invisalign treatment to last about 1-2 years. 

Invisalign Highlights: 

• Permanently align teeth
• Also aligns bite
• Affects all your teeth
• Does not need to be replaced

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain that are adhered to the front side of visible teeth in order to improve the size, shape, and color of the teeth. They can also be used to repair minor damage such as chips and cracks. 

Longevity:

10-15 years; highly durable and stain resistant

Treatment with Veneers

Veneers are a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that can be performed in two dental appointments. The first appointment is needed to prepare the teeth and obtain the information necessary to fabricate the veneers. During this first appointment, your dentist will remove a small amount of tooth enamel in order to make space for the veneers. They will then take a dental impression or oral scan of your mouth to send to a dental laboratory so your veneers are customized for your smile. Finally, temporary veneers will be placed to protect your teeth until the permanent veneers are complete. During your second visit, these temporary veneers will be removed and replaced with the permanent veneers. 

Veneer Highlights

• Can restore chipped, cracked, and/or stained teeth
• Can be used on a single tooth or entire smile
• Only need two dental appointments for completion
• Corrects multiple cosmetic concerns at once