Alternatives to Dental Veneers

While porcelain veneers can be used to make over a person's smile with excellent results, they are not the best treatment option for everyone. Depending on your dental health, treatment goals, and financial objectives, you may benefit more from another treatment, such as braces, Invisalign®, or dental bonding. Talk to a dentist offering porcelain veneers about these alternatives to veneers.

Braces

Since healthy, aligned teeth are the foundation of a beautiful smile, braces may be the best solution if a patient has severe crowding, a cross-bite, or an over-bite. This is because teeth that do not fit together correctly can cause tooth decay, bone loss, bite problems, and other issues if left untreated. Unlike veneers, which conceal crooked teeth, braces straighten the teeth and prevent problems caused by misalignment.

Invisalign®

For patients with minor misalignment, Invisalign® can be an excellent option for obtaining a balanced, healthy smile. The Invisalign® system provides the benefits of braces – correcting misalignment instead of camouflaging it like veneers – without conspicuous metal or ceramic brackets. Instead, the Invisalign® system uses a series of clear plastic trays that gradually reposition the teeth. The trays are comfortable, removable, and virtually invisible, making them popular among adult orthodontic patients.

Dental Bonding

For minor chips, cracks, and discoloration, dental bonding may be all that is needed to enhance your smile. Unlike placing porcelain veneers, dental bonding does not require removal of the natural tooth structure (although it may require light etching of the enamel). Instead, the bonding material is applied directly to the surface of the tooth and cured with a special light. Dental bonding is also a relatively inexpensive alternative to veneers.

Locate a Dentist Offering Porcelain Veneers

Patients desiring to transform their smile have many treatment options. Use DocShop to locate an experienced cosmetic dentist near you who can help you choose the right treatment for your smile makeover.