Over the years, the fields of dentistry and orthodontics have seen numerous advancements. New technology has been developed, and improved techniques have come to light. Digital x-rays give dentists a far more complete and intricate picture of patients’ specific problems and how to treat them. At the same time, a wide range of effective treatments is available to remedy the situations patients may be facing. Whether you’re looking for help with physical orthodontic issues or purely cosmetic ones, there’s a good chance that at least one treatment option will meet your needs and expectations.
Taking a Closer Look at Veneers and Braces
If you’re searching for a Dentist Near Me, you’ve probably been wondering about the treatment options at your disposal. Several choices are out there, but braces and veneers are among the most common and effective. Neither is right for all patients, but one of these solutions could be the answer you’re looking for. Take a look at each treatment as well as its benefits and disadvantages to get a better understanding of the possibilities.
Which Problems Do Braces Treat?
In most cases, braces are used to straighten misaligned teeth. They can also correct overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Braces may also be effective at closing gaps between teeth in certain instances. They work gradually, so full results won’t be seen for several months after having braces put into place. At the same time, preserving the effects of braces and preventing teeth from returning to their original positions after the braces are removed requires using retainers.
For braces to be an effective solution, the teeth must be in good shape. Your jawbones and gum tissue must also be healthy. If you have gum issues or injured or damaged jawbones, braces probably aren’t the best option. Braces aren’t effective for hiding broken teeth, either. In the event your dentist finds significant tooth decay to be a problem, he or she probably won’t recommend braces.
When Are Veneers the Better Alternative?
Veneers don’t actually straighten teeth or correct misalignment issues. They’re thin applications that are fitted over the fronts of the teeth to create a natural-looking smile. They simply cover gaps and broken, stained, or crooked teeth for a brighter, more even appearance. Whereas braces work slowly over a period of time, veneers provide instant results. Dentists and orthodontists often recommend veneers for patients who aren’t good candidates for braces.
Before having veneers put into place, the surfaces of your teeth may need to be trimmed to make them more even. From there, the dentist will make a mold of your teeth and send it to a lab where the veneers will be made. After a few weeks, the veneers are ready to be permanently affixed to your teeth. Your dentist may clean and polish your teeth before applying the veneers and etch the surfaces of the teeth so the veneers will adhere better. On the downside, trimming and etching the teeth can make them more sensitive to heat and cold.
Overall
Both braces and veneers can help give patients an improved smile. Braces aren’t appropriate for chipped, broken, and stained teeth or patients who have certain underlying dental issues. Veneers don’t correct dental problems, but they hide them well and provide fast natural-looking results. If these options sound appealing, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist to find out which one may be the best solution for you.
