Your smile is often the first trait that people notice about you. It let’s people know when you’re happy or excited, and it’s one of the most crucial tools that everybody uses to socialize. When misaligned teeth and gaps make you doubt whether anybody will even want to see your smile, it can make you hesitant to start up a conversation or truly show your emotions through your grin. Fortunately, there are a few cosmetic dental treatments that can help you address these issues, but you’ll need to visit your dentist to learn which one is the right option for your unique needs. Read on to learn more about these smile-straightening treatments and what one can help address your needs.
Smile-Straightening Treatments
There are two main smile-straightening treatments that you could choose from, depending on your needs: SureSmile clear aligners, which are used to address orthodontic issues, and porcelain veneers, which primarily focus on more minor, cosmetic misalignment. The best way to learn more about which one is right for you is to schedule a consultation, but it’s always a good idea to go into that appointment with a little bit of background knowledge on these procedures.
SureSmile Clear Aligners
SureSmile clear aligners are sometimes referred to as “invisible braces” or “clear braces” because they’re virtually unnoticeable. Using a series of customized plastic aligners that are crafted from a digital scan of your teeth, this treatment acts to gently and strategically place pressure on your arch to shift the teeth into their ideal positions. Each set of trays is worn for between one and two weeks before advancing to the next series until your ideal results are reached.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are a one-stop-shop treatment that can typically be completed in two appointments spread out over the course of two to three weeks. They’re thin, durable sheaths that are designed to fit over the visible surface of teeth to fix chips, cracks, and even misaligned and gapped teeth. The porcelain that they’re crafted from is stain-resistant, and with the proper maintenance, they can last for 15 years or longer.
SureSmile vs. Veneers: Which Can Fit Your Unique Needs?
The primary difference between SureSmile and Veneers is that SureSmile is able to address the root cause of misalignment and gaps in order to achieve permanent results that don’t alter the structure of your teeth. However, if you have other cosmetic imperfections that you’re also looking to address, such as chipped and cracked teeth, porcelain veneers will likely be the best option for you since they can address all of those issues using one procedure.
Your smile means a lot to you and everyone around you, so it’s understandable why you want to choose what’s best for both your needs and oral health. With proper guidance from your cosmetic dentist, you’ll be able to achieve customized, beautiful results that encourage you to get out there and smile more and form new connections!
About the Author
Dr. Stacy Goodwill is a passionate cosmetic dentist who has been helping patients reach their smile-related goals for over 20 years. She customizes each of her treatments to fit her patient’s needs and remains up-to-date with the latest treatments and techniques used in the dental field. She is certified in SureSmiles, has completed additional SPEAR education, and is a Fellow in the International Dental Implant Association. For questions about cosmetic treatments or to schedule a consultation, visit Cornerstone Dental’s website or call 701-237-3583.