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Individuals who suffer from misaligned teeth, tooth chips or gaps often find themselves at a crossroads. They can opt to undergo an orthodontic treatment to repair their smile deformity, or they can be outfitted with dental veneers for instant relief. Both of the aforementioned options have their respective merits and downfalls. Veneers are undoubtedly a quicker route to a perfect smile, while braces are better suited for those who are patient. This article will delve into both the advantages and disadvantages of these two procedures in hopes of helping individuals make more informed decisions. It is very important that you consult your dentist before making any final decisions in respect to course of treatment.

Braces are without question one of the most popular treatments provided under orthodontics. These brackets are outfitted on a patient by a specialist known as an orthodontist. This type of dentist has received specialized instruction as to treat malocclusions. In many instances, the orthodontist may recommend the utilize additional tools (such as orthodontic rubber bands) in conjunction with braces to perfect a patient’s smile. The modern day orthodontic landscape considerably differs from the one that existed several years ago. Patient needs in terms of aesthetics and comfort have become a growing focus.

Braces are available in a plethora of different styles and colors. Invisible braces are now even available for increased stealth. As you might imagine, these advancements have driven people to gravitate towards this procedure. Society has in many respects begun to embrace the appearance of braces, and thus many younger children have been encouraged to sport them. This procedure has become far more lucrative than it once was thanks to aesthetic considerations as well as technological advancements that have allowed for a more pain-free installation.

Misaligned teeth can be effectively corrected with braces. Unlike other procedures, braces don’t mask the problem but rather address it. However, correct misalignment can take a substantial amount of time. Those who wear braces often do so for more than a year. This can obviously be intrusive on one’s life. While there are sacrifices to be made, they are indeed rewarding in the end.

Dental veneers are dissimilar to braces on several fronts. Veneers, for instance, don’t take months or years to take full effect. The patient gets instant gratification in the form of a new smile. After a few dental appointments, the patient can begin to enjoy his or her new smile immediately. However, veneers don’t correct dental problems, they simply seek to mask their aesthetic nuisances. Veneers are outfitted on patients with a wide variety of problems, ranging from tooth gaps to severe discoloration. Veneers are stain resistant making them a highly beneficial for those who suffer from prolonged and severe tooth discoloration.

Veneers have a few drawbacks. For one, tooth reshaping is often necessary. During this phase of installation process, a portion of the patient’s tooth enamel is removed and the teeth are shaped as to allow for the added bulk of the veneers (which are merely thin shells made of porcelain or a composite material). This part of the process makes it impossible for the patient to abandon their veneers in the future. Tooth enamel cannot be restored, nor can the tooth structure which once existed under the veneers. Another thing to be aware of is the price of veneers. They almost always run over $1,000 for a single tooth. You get the instant gratification, however, it comes at a hefty cost.

Those looking to spend somewhat less might consider Lumineers, a thinner variant of veneers that require less preparation work. Some discomfort in the form of tooth sensitivity may follow the procedure, so this is something to keep in mind. Veneers do tend to last for ten years or more, so your investment won’t go to waste anytime soon. Those looking for quick results that have money to invest may find veneers to be more lucrative than orthodontic work. However, everything is best thought through carefully before any action it taken.

Tags: Health & Fitness //