Braces or Veneers for a Beautiful Smile?
A great smile can really boost your confidence but knowing which dental treatment to choose to correct your teeth can be a little confusing. There is so much information around on internet the choices can be bewildering. The best person to talk to is your dentist but here are a few pointers that will help you think about your dental needs.
If you have “structural” problem with your teeth like overcrowding, crooked teeth, large gaps or an imperfect bite then you are likely to need braces to correct the problem. Braces work by gradually moving the teeth into the correct position.
Don’t worry about those ugly, old-fashioned metal braces from years ago, dental technology has moved on considerably and there are now many more comfortable and discreet braces available:
- “Invisible” braces are worn over the teeth but are transparent
- Lingual braces fit behind the teeth and cannot be seen
If you do have a structural problem with your teeth, a corrective treatment like braces can really make a difference and can help prevent future problems too. Untreated, misaligned teeth can lead to teeth chipping, erosion and jaw problems over time. Crooked teeth are also harder to keep clean because food debris can hide in the gaps. This increases the risk of gum disease or periodontitis which can lead to tooth loss in severe cases.
What are veneers?
If you have a “cosmetic” problem such as chipped or stained teeth – or you are unhappy about small gaps between your teeth – then veneers may be more suitable.
Veneers are very thin pieces of porcelain that are bonded to the front of your teeth and can change the shape, colour or even size of your teeth. Just think “Hollywood Smile” and start to imagine just how great a smile makeover could be.
The good news about having veneers is that it involves only a minimally invasive treatment, just a tiny bit of tooth enamel is removed during the process. Veneers can really boost your confidence and esteem and quickly transform the appearance of your teeth.
Whichever treatment you think you need, talk to us here at Sloan Dental in either Carfin or Bishopton, and we can make a full examination of your needs. We will then be able to advise you on the best way to correct your teeth and to provide that beautiful smile that you want.