Patients who want to improve their smile have lots of options available to them, including orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign. But beyond orthodontics, one popular form of cosmetic dentistry is getting veneers. Since both veneers and orthodontics involve improving the appearance of people’s smiles, many people who want veneers are left wondering if they can still get braces too.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are small attachments people can choose to have placed on the surface of their front teeth. They typically are made out of porcelain or resin and are stained to provide a bright yet natural-looking appearance.
The choice to get veneers isn’t one to be done lightly. Generally, patients get veneers if their front teeth are severely cracked, stained, or have other defects. In order for there to be enough room for the veneers, the enamel on each tooth has to be shaved down. The veneers are then bonded directly to the teeth using a powerful adhesive.
As you might be able to guess based on the description of how veneers are installed, the procedure is irreversible as the veneers effectively replace the enamel.
Veneers and Orthodontics
While veneers are very helpful for patients who need them, they aren’t a form of orthodontic treatment. They won’t straighten teeth, but they will improve the appearance of teeth.
That being said, many patients who could use veneers or who already have veneers could also benefit from orthodontics since having straight, evenly spaced teeth improves oral health. But there are some important factors to consider when thinking about getting braces with veneers.
It is possible to get braces with veneers, but the brackets won’t adhere to the surface of veneers as effectively as they would on real teeth. Also, your need for veneers may be reduced if your teeth are straightened and properly spaced. Because of this, it’s recommended that you get braces before you get veneers.
Getting your teeth straightened and improving the surface of your teeth with veneers can be a powerful way to give yourself more confidence. It can also make it easier to live with veneers and protect your teeth from further damage.
Invisalign and Veneers
Generally speaking, orthodontists will recommend that patients with veneers choose Invisalign if they want to straighten their teeth. Since Invisalign doesn’t require any adhesive, it’s a bit easier for patients to use Invisalign aligners and to make it through orthodontic treatment without any issues.
Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a clear smile with Invisalign thanks to the invisible plastic trays. Patients also really appreciate how easy it is to remove their trays during meals, which means you can still eat the foods you enjoy most with Invisalign.
If you are interested in getting braces or Invisalign with veneers, you can schedule a free consultation here at Smith Orthodontics and we’ll lay out a treatment plan for you. Contact us today!
