When your teeth are crooked or misaligned, you might cover your mouth when you talk and feel self-conscious in social situations. Misaligned teeth are also more difficult to brush and floss, causing tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
Fortunately, you have options. Both dental veneers and braces can improve your smile’s appearance, but which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out.
Veneers and Braces: What’s the Difference?
Dental veneers fall into the cosmetic dentistry category, concealing discolored, chipped, stained, or gapped teeth. They are thin porcelain shells placed on the front sides of your teeth. Your dentist can precisely match your veneers to your tooth shape and color.
Veneers are durable and long-lasting; you can expect them to last for many years with proper care.
Braces change your teeth’s structural alignment and fix an overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite.
Both dental treatments can improve your smile, but only braces can correct structural dental issues such as:
- Difficulty chewing or biting down
- Difficulty speaking because of a lisp
- Difficulty closing your mouth completely
Which One Is Right for You?
Your Winston-Salem dentist can discuss your oral health needs so you can make an informed decision about veneers vs. braces, but here are some things to keep in mind:
- Time — Veneers can be placed in two dental visits, while braces require a longer time commitment. Traditional braces typically have a longer treatment time than clear aligners.
- Misalignment — Veneers may be an option for mild misalignment, but braces are your best option if your teeth are moderately or severely misaligned.
- Preparation — Veneers require us to remove a small amount of tooth enamel to give you a seamless look, while braces don’t alter your tooth’s structure.
Want to Learn More about Veneers in Winston-Salem, NC?
If you need a dentist in Winston-Salem, NC, look no further than the office of Dr. Jeffrey J. Tibbs! Our expert dental team will discuss your smile goals and form a treatment plan to suit your cosmetic and oral health needs.
Call our dental office at (336) 765-7477 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to hearing from you.