The advancement of oral health technology in cosmetic dentistry over the years has been truly impressive. It’s incredible how much this field has progressed in the last 20 years, changing millions of patients’ lives for the better nationwide.
Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic treatment designed to enhance the visual appearance of teeth.
How have things changed in the dental industry? Gone are the days of having to wear traditional braces that cut your lips and leave you embarrassed to smile. Now dentists and orthodontists can easily remedy even the most extreme dental health issues, including:
- Overlapping teeth
- Staining or discoloration
- Overbites and underbites
- Severe malocclusion (teeth crowding)
- Missing or eroded teeth
- Gum disease
- Certain cosmetic complaints
These days, adult patients with orthodontic issues have tons of access to top-of-the-line porcelain veneers and multiple brands offering clear aligners that help achieve a brighter, straighter smile.
If you have significantly compromised teeth, consider Invisalign vs. veneers and see a significant change in your smile without the burden of metal braces.
Dealing With Dental Issues
Incorporating modern equipment, techniques, and instruments into the orthodontic treatment process allows your orthodontist or cosmetic dentist to offer a comfortable, quick, and effective treatment plan. Before diving into orthodontic treatment, patients must decide between the Invisalign trays and dental veneers.
A couple of the latest engineering feats of dental health include Invisalign and veneers — each of which can be used to dramatically improve your teeth cosmetically as well as functionally.
While both popular cosmetic dental treatment options beat out traditional metal braces among most modern patients, choosing the one that’s most comfortable for you is still important. You also want to ensure it’s the best option for treating your unique oral health issues since both treatments can be ineffective in certain situations.
Understanding your specific dental concerns, such as alignment or cosmetic flaws, is crucial for determining the most suitable treatment plan.
Invisalign vs. Veneers
There’s a significant difference between veneers vs. Invisalign, so let’s take a closer look at what both Invisalign and tooth veneer treatments require. Below, we break down the ins and outs of each treatment, including pros and cons, to help you determine whether dental veneers or the Invisalign system will be most successful for fixing your tooth or teeth.
First up, Invisalign:
Invisalign Treatment
Invisalign is a custom-made, clear aligner system that you wear on your teeth in lieu of braces to achieve straighter teeth. The clear aligners help your teeth gradually shift into the desired position with minimal pain.
Adults looking to correct spacing, overbite, underbite, or crossbite issues commonly use the Invisalign system. However, kids can also use Invisalign clear aligners instead of conventional braces.
Pros of Invisalign Treatment ✅
- Less noticeable than metal braces
- The aligners are virtually invisible, making them a discreet option for teeth straightening
- Invisalign involves a reasonably short treatment length to see results compared to metal braces (~12 months)
- Customized to fit your teeth
- Can treat multiple dental issues at once
- More affordable than other treatment options like veneers (average Invisalign treatment costs range from $3,000 to $8,000)
- Often covered by insurance
Cons of Invisalign Aligners 🚫
- Invisalign typically requires removal before eating, so children can lose the clear trays
- Recommended that you always brush treated teeth after eating to avoid stained teeth, which may become tedious
- Mild discomfort as natural teeth adjust to a new set of Invisalign aligners each visit
- Must be worn 22 hours per day, including while sleeping
- Invisalign treatment takes several months of patience and commitment from the initial consultation to treatment conclusion to see significant differences (length of Invisalign treatment depends on current natural tooth state; most patients undergo Invisalign treatment over 12 months)
Porcelain Veneers
While aligner trays embrace the idea of slow and steady, some patients don’t want to wait months for a straighter smile or might only need one tooth fixed. If the Invisalign treatment isn’t what you’re looking for to solve issues with your existing teeth, or you’re simply still trying to decide between veneers or Invisalign, keep reading.
Dental veneers, also called permanent or composite veneers, are porcelain shells that bond to the surface of your permanent teeth after removing a thin layer of enamel, effectively making a thicker tooth wall. Invisalign focuses on fixing crooked or crowded teeth primarily, while veneers correct cosmetic issues for the most part.
Your dentist can apply veneers that give you the appearance of straight teeth, replace a missing tooth, or act like long-lasting teeth whitening treatments by taking care of superficial issues, such as:
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Stained or discoloured teeth
- Mis-shapen teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Holes or gaps
If it’s found that your teeth have one or more of the conditions listed above, your dentist may suggest porcelain veneers. It is the most efficient and painless process to get the desired results, though it comes with a more considerable price tag. Explore examples of even more pros and cons of porcelain veneers below to decide if this route to a great smile is right for you:
Pros of Dental Veneers ✅
- Veneers are highly durable and can handle as much use as regular tooth enamel
- Permanent veneers last a long time — 10 years at a minimum, but up to 20 years
- Dental veneers are resistant to stains from beverages such as coffee and tea
- Because they are crafted to look like natural teeth, they appear real and inconspicuous
- The procedure is fast and painless, and the entire treatment process may take as little as 2 or 3 visits to your dentist
- Can be used to have only one tooth corrected, or your dentist can fix multiple teeth at once
- Veneers can help you achieve a radiant smile by addressing various cosmetic imperfections
Cons of Veneers 🚫
- Many patients require replacement veneers after 10-20 years
- The process is irreversible – there is no such thing as temporary veneers
- If you have extreme orthodontic issues or weak teeth, you may not be a viable candidate for veneers
- Basic dental insurance plans rarely cover porcelain dental veneers, so treatment can cost anywhere from $900 to $2,500 per tooth, with a full mouth of veneers reaching upwards of $20,000 at a reputable orthodontic or dental health facility
- Veneers require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and effectiveness
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for Invisalign are those with mild to moderate dental alignment issues, such as crooked teeth, crowded teeth, or gaps between teeth. It’s crucial for these candidates to have good oral health, free from underlying oral health issues like gum disease or tooth decay. Invisalign is particularly suitable for adult patients who are looking for a discreet way to improve their smile. On the other hand, veneers are perfect for individuals seeking an immediate enhancement in the appearance of their teeth. Veneers can address concerns related to tooth color, shape, size, or minor alignment issues. Both Invisalign and veneers are excellent options for adult patients aiming to boost their confidence with a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
Cost and Treatment Length
The cost and duration of treatment are significant factors to consider when choosing between Invisalign and veneers. Invisalign treatment costs can range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the complexity of the case. The treatment duration typically spans 6 to 18 months, contingent on the patient’s specific dental needs and adherence to the treatment plan. Veneers, on the other hand, can be more expensive, with costs ranging from $800 to $2,500 per tooth. The entire treatment process for veneers is relatively quick, often completed in just two visits to the dentist. The length of treatment for both options varies based on individual cases and the patient’s compliance with the prescribed treatment plan.
The Role of Oral Health
Maintaining good oral health is paramount for both Invisalign and veneers. Candidates for these treatments should have healthy teeth and gums, free from underlying oral health issues such as gum disease or tooth decay. Invisalign and veneers can contribute to better oral health by correcting teeth alignment and bite issues, which in turn can reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. However, patients with severe oral health issues may not be suitable candidates for either treatment. A qualified dental professional can conduct a thorough oral health assessment to determine the best course of action, ensuring that the chosen treatment will be effective and beneficial for the patient’s overall oral health.
Combination Therapy
In some cases, a combination of Invisalign and veneers may be the optimal solution for achieving the best results. Invisalign can be used to straighten teeth and correct bite issues, while veneers can enhance the appearance of teeth by addressing cosmetic concerns such as discoloration, shape, and size. This combination therapy offers a comprehensive approach, providing patients with a straighter, more aesthetically pleasing smile. A qualified dental professional can evaluate whether combination therapy is suitable for a patient and develop a personalized treatment plan to achieve the desired outcome. By integrating Invisalign and veneers, patients can enjoy a more confident smile that significantly enhances their overall appearance and self-esteem.
Which Treatment Is Best for You?
When deciding whether Invisalign vs. veneers is best for you, it’s hard to make the right decision without visiting a dentist first. Not only do you have to factor in treatment costs and timing for your own benefit, but you also must consult a dentist who can help figure out which option will be most effective for achieving your desired outcome. Consulting a dental provider is essential to determine the most effective treatment for your specific needs.
As previously stated, not everyone will be eligible for veneers, Invisalign, or sometimes, either one — it all hinges on the current strength and overall health status of your teeth. People with eroded or missing teeth, or other affected teeth, typically can’t take advantage of clear aligners, so veneers are often a better option to remedy these kinds of bigger problems instead. Alternatively, veneers won’t necessarily correct certain orthodontic issues, such as extensive malocclusion or misaligned teeth, whereas the Invisalign treatment would be a more effective orthodontic solution to fix that specifically. Invisalign works by using a series of clear aligners that gradually shift teeth into their desired positions, making it an excellent option for straightening teeth.
It’s also important to consider that some patients may experience tooth sensitivity after undergoing dental procedures.
Still uncertain about Invisalign vs. veneers? The choice between Invisalign and veneers depends on your specific dental needs and aesthetic goals. When you choose Wayzata Dental, we’ll help you select the best procedures and treatment plans to fit your personal needs. We understand that every pair of teeth is different than the next, and not every solution will be the same when it comes to getting you the smile you want. Explore the differences between Invisalign and veneers to determine the best orthodontic solution for your needs.
Invisalign vs. Veneers: Cost Comparison
| Factor | Invisalign | Veneers |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost (Per Treatment) | $3,000 – $7,000 | $925 – $2,500 per tooth |
| Treatment Duration | 6–18 months (depending on severity) | 2–3 weeks (usually 2 appointments) |
| Dental Insurance Coverage | Sometimes partially covered (orthodontic care) | Rarely covered (cosmetic procedure) |
| Follow-Up Visits | Included in treatment plan | May require separate visits for adjustments |
| Maintenance Costs | Retainers: $100–$500 every few years | Replacement after 10–15 years: same as original |
| Durability/Longevity | Permanent alignment (with retainer use) | 10–15 years (may need replacement) |
| Additional Costs | Teeth whitening (optional) | Possible gum contouring, whitening, or bonding |
Correct Your Crooked Teeth Today
If you are interested in trying out Invisalign trays or porcelain veneers, then Wayzata Dental is the perfect spot to schedule an appointment. At Wayzata Dental, we care about our patients and, above all else, want to make sure that they are satisfied with the services they receive while under our care.
Our trusted team of dental professionals provides in-depth information and answers all questions you may have about each procedure to ensure you’re a good candidate for either veneers or Invisalign. After visiting our offices, we promise you’ll be more confident in your teeth than ever.
Call us at 952-473-4900 to schedule a cosmetic dentistry appointment with Wayzata Dental or book online now!
We’re looking forward to seeing you!
FAQs
Should you get veneers or Invisalign first?
It’s usually best to get Invisalign first to straighten your teeth before applying veneers. Veneers are cosmetic and won’t move your teeth, so orthodontic treatment should come first if alignment is needed. Your dentist can create a treatment plan based on your specific dental needs and goals.
Should I straighten my teeth or get veneers?
If your teeth are crooked, Invisalign is often the better first step. Veneers can enhance appearance but don’t correct alignment. However, if your alignment issues are minor and you want fast cosmetic results, veneers might be an option. A dental consultation will help determine the right choice for you.
What are the disadvantages of veneers?
Veneers are permanent and require removing some enamel, which can’t be undone. They can be costly and may need replacement after 10–15 years. Veneers can also chip or crack, especially if you grind your teeth. Additionally, they don’t address underlying dental issues like alignment or bite problems.
