Do you have slightly crooked teeth? If so, then you may be hesitant to show your ivories. It’s absolutely no fun when you have to be cautious about doing something as natural as smiling. The good news is that your cosmetic dentist has 2 treatment options available to help you overcome your imperfections and achieve a symmetrical and attractive smile. Continue reading to find out what they are!
Option #1 – Porcelain Veneers
The porcelain veneers procedure provides a relatively swift way to improve your smile by masking any existing flaws. The thin ceramic shells are custom-designed by your dentist to match the color, shape, size and texture of your other teeth so that you’ll have a natural-looking final appearance.
Here are the typical steps to the procedure:
- A thin layer of enamel is removed so the veneers can fit properly.
- Bite impressions are taken and, along with a custom smile plan, are sent to a trusted lab that will fabricate your veneers.
- Temporary veneers are placed to protect your teeth while you wait on the permanent fixtures.
- Usually, in two to three weeks, the veneers will arrive from the lab, and you’ll be invited back to have them permanently bonded into position.
With a set of veneers, slightly crooked teeth will appear straighter, gaps can be closed, and any cracks fixed. While the porcelain fixtures are excellent for revamping your smile, if you want an orthodontic solution, there is yet another avenue you can take.
Option #2 – Invisalign
Although traditional braces are highly effective at fixing crooked teeth, you now have another option that doesn’t require you to be fitted with metal brackets and wires. The Invisalign method of bite correction uses a series of custom-made clear plastic aligners to gently and gradually shift your teeth until they are properly aligned.
In addition to providing a discreet way of fixing your bite, it can usually make the necessary corrections in a fraction of the time of traditional braces, while allowing you to also maintain a normal diet and oral hygiene routine.
The process is simple. You’ll wear each set of aligner trays for two weeks, and then exchange them for the next pair in the series. With each progression, you’ll be able to see a new smile emerging.
What’s Best for You?
Making a decision about whether to choose porcelain veneers or Invisalign comes down to your specific smile needs and your preferences. The best place to start, though, is with visiting your cosmetic dentist for a consultation. While you’re there, you can learn more about each procedure and get a professional suggestion so that you can feel comfortable about moving forward.
No matter which route you take, a brand-new smile and heightened confidence are soon to come!
About the Author
Dr. Dennis E. Stansbury earned his dental degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Throughout his career, he has remained an avid learner, participating in a variety of continuing education courses each year. Dr. Stansbury understands how important it is to have a beautiful smile, which is why he provides his patients with the option to either receive porcelain veneers or Invisalign at Stansbury Dental. He can be reached for more information through his website.