Braces Vs. Veneers

There is no question that you may need to change the appearance of your teeth. The question, however, is what approach to take. If you choose braces, metal brackets will be attached to the teeth. A flexible metal wire is placed through the brackets and small rubber bands are placed on the brackets to hold the wire in place. With braces, you will have to wait longer than a year to see the results that you desire. Nevertheless, there is another option. Veneers, also called dental veneers, porcelain veneers and dental porcelain laminates, improve appearance as well. Unlike braces, veneers are made of a thin customized material that cover the teeth. Thus, there is no waiting. Following are some other considerations to keep in mind before making a decision on which option is best for your teeth.

Advantages of Braces

• Braces are metal or clear thin aligners or retainer. Braces treat problems, such as gaps, uneven spaces and crowded misalignment. They also correct under and overbites. Patients can choose other colors than traditional silver. For instance, you can have ceramic or clear braces that blend in with your teeth or a gold color. In addition, braces, such as lingual braces, fit behind teeth and can't be seen. Invisible retainers are removable and can be worn while eating, drink or talking without limitations.

Braces Disadvantages

• Patients will endure multiple dental visits to make sure that the treatment is going as planned. Also, patients can endure constant adjustments based on how fast or slow the changes are occurring. If you want instant results, braces may not be your best option. Patients with braces undergo more than a year of treatment. It can interfere with eating. For instance, there are some foods, like candy that you can't eat. Wearing braces can also cause issues of self-consciousness.

Veneers Advantages

• In three dental visits, veneer patients have the results they desire. Veneers hide gaps, uneven teeth, irregular shaped teeth and other misalignment. They can also hide teeth discoloration caused by medicine, root canals and fillings. Lastly, chipped or broken teeth can be hidden by veneers. Other advantages are veneers are resistant to discoloration and can last up to 10 years.

Veneers Disadvantages

• Your teeth will never be the same. The dentists remove ½ mm of enamel so the adhesive can bond to teeth. Teeth are reshaped so the veneers can fit. Thus, veneer patients must forever remain committed to the treatment. Tooth decay is possible because of the loss of enamel and reshaping. Price is also a factor. One tooth can cost thousands to cover.

Considerations

• Patients with braces need to brush their teeth after every meal or snack. Apples, bagels, corn on the cob or popcorn should be avoided if you have braces. Special care is not needed for patients with veneers. However, veneers can't be fixed if they crack or chip. People who grind or clench their teeth should not get veneers because they will eventually crack or chip.