Porcelain Veneers or Braces

Porcelain veneers and braces are popular treatments for improving smiles. Both treatments have great results for people who want more beautiful, healthy smiles. Ygnacio Dental can help you select the best.

Dental Braces

Braces are orthodontic devices that move teeth gradually. They are used to align teeth and fix bite problems. The average patient wears braces for one to three years. Regular orthodontist visits are required to monitor and adjust treatment progress. An archwire guides tooth movement and small elastic bands attach to front-facing brackets. Dental braces come in various styles and colors.

The Benefits of Braces

Orthodontic braces are a non-invasive way to straighten your smile. Braces can also correct jaw or bite alignment issues, which can impact overall health. Untreated malocclusions (misalignments) can lead to:

• Headaches caused by tension
• Inflammation of the jaw joints (TMJ)
• Earache
• Neck ache
• Gums that are receding
• Loosening teeth
• Loss of teeth

Brace Limitations

Most people dislike braces because of the treatment time and follow-up care. Most people wear retainers after braces treatment to keep their teeth from moving back. After braces are removed, you must wear a retainer all day and night for several months and years.

What Are Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of tooth-like material designed to improve the appearance of teeth. Veneers resist stains and reflect light like natural teeth. They regularly fix:

• Discolored teeth
• Root canal treated teeth
• Worn, chipped, or broken teeth
• Teeth with irregular shapes or gaps

Advantages of Veneers for the Teeth

• Dental veneers can improve the shape and color of your teeth as well as their position.
• Dental veneers are typically installed in a few visits to your dentist
• Porcelain veneers are stain-resistant and will not fade over time
• Dental veneers can appear very natural

Dental Veneers Limitations

Adding thickness to dental veneers requires removing some enamel. This is permanent and you must wear veneers forever. Concealer thickness and bulk may be required for crowded teeth. This irritates some patients and makes cleaning and maintenance more difficult. There may be a gap between your gum line and the top of the veneer as your gums naturally recede.

Your cosmetic dentist at Ygnacio Dental and you will need to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option, as well as your dental health and cosmetic needs. We can be found at 1766 Lacassie Ave, Suite 101, Walnut Creek, CA 94596. Call (925) 280-2848 to schedule an appointment.