It is a well known fact that many people are unhappy with their smiles, but not everyone knows that there are three ways to straighten teeth. There is the option of getting veneers which will cover your front teeth and can be used in conjunction with braces, there is also the option of getting Invisalign which will move your jaw into place and lastly there is an option of getting crowns. Veneers are made out of porcelain and can be used in conjunction with braces while Invisalign moves your jaw into place. Crowns are permanent fixtures for you mouth so they cannot be removed or replaced like other options.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are one way to fix your smile. Veneers are only a thin shell of porcelain, but they will give you the white, straight teeth that you’ve always wanted. Veneers can also correct other cosmetic concerns such as: chips, discoloration and misshapen teeth. If you want to achieve a white, straight smile without having to go through long and painful treatments such as tooth-colored fillings or crowns, porcelain veneers may be right for you. They can be used in conjunction with braces, but they will not work the same as Invisalign because there aren’t any wires to move your jaw. Veneers are made out of porcelain, so they cannot be removed or replaced, unlike other options. Veneers straighten teeth by covering your existing teeth and closing between the teeth to make them appear straight.
Invisalign
Invisalign is a system of clear, removable trays that have been designed to move teeth into their proper position. These trays are made from smooth plastic and can be removed for eating or cleaning. Patients who use Invisalign will have a set of 20-30 of these trays that they change out every 2 weeks throughout the Invisalign process. Every 2 weeks, the patient will switch out their trays for new ones that have been designed to move their teeth a little bit further than before.
The process of straightening teeth with invisalign involves using a constant, gentle force that gradually shifts your teeth and bite into a more optimal position. Although this is similar to the way braces work, Invisalign allows for orthodontic treatment that is flexible, comfortable, and discreet.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a damaged tooth. The crown is designed to protect the surface of your teeth and restore function, form, and appearance. Dental crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of the teeth and/or to correct minor imperfections with the bite. Dental crowns straighten your teeth by covering your existing teeth and closing up the gaps between them to make them appear straight. Since placing a crown modifies your enamel, crowns are permanent fixtures which must be replaced when they wear down. However, crowns can be used in the back of the mouth, whereas veneers cannot be.
How Do I Know Which Option is Best?
One of the most common questions I am asked at my dental practice is “How do I know which option is best?” This can be difficult to answer because there are many variables that need to be considered. In order to decide which option best suits you, there are a few things you need to consider:
- the severity of your case (is it mild or severe?)
- how long did you want treatment to last (will this be temporary or permanent?)
- What is your budget?
- The first step is to schedule a consultation to discuss your options with your local cosmetic dentist.
In conclusion, there are many options when it comes to straightening teeth. The three most popular for adults are porcelain veneers, Invisalign, and dental crowns. Veneers cover your front teeth and cannot be removed or replaced like Invisalign can, while Invisalign will move your jaw into place. Crowns are permanent fixtures that cannot be taken out of the mouth, like veneers, but can also be used in the back of mouth, unlike veneers. Which option you choose depends on what you want from treatment as well as how long a solution needs to last. If this sounds overwhelming or if you want help finding the best option for yourself, contact your local cosmetic dentist today.
Dr. Sadati possesses extensive experience in all aspects of advanced restorative dentistry, with an emphasis in cosmetic and implant dentistry. He has attained Accredited Fellow status in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), the most rigorous, demanding credentialing process in the world. He is the only AACD Accredited Fellow in South Florida.
