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Veneers vs. Braces: What’s Best for Your Smile

If you’re asking: what’s best for my smile braces or veneers? Keep reading to learn about the latest dental solutions to enhance your smile.

When you feel insecure about your teeth, you smile less. And, who wants that? Your smile communicates beyond words. It’s only natural to want to have a healthy, attractive smile.

These days, there are many ways to enhance your smile. Orthodontics, like invisible or traditional braces refine your bite and align teeth. If you have teeth that are chipped, cracked, or even a little broken porcelain veneers can make a big difference.

What Do Veneers Treat?

Veneers restore your teeth and enhance their appearance. Porcelain veneers are the gold standard of veneers. his is because they are durable and closely resemble natural tooth enamel. A veneer fits over the front of your tooth. Veneers refine the shape and color of your teeth. Dr. Frahm works exclusive with U.S. dental laboratories to create custom veneers just for you. She often recommends veneers for people who would like to refine:

  • Teeth with chips, cracks, and minor breaks
  • To close gaps between teeth
  • Tooth shape, size, and length
  • Color of teeth that cannot be altered with whitening

Veneers can be placed in just two visits. Our process for veneer placement is designed to include you every step of the way. We value your input. From smile imaging, to a try on smile, to the placement of your final smile, what you think matters.

What Do Braces Treat?

Braces are a popular treatment for misaligned teeth, overbites, underbites, and cross-bites. They can also be used to close gaps between the teeth and resolve overcrowding. While braces require months of your time, they provide a long-term correction. With modern orthodontic options, there are several types of braces for people of all ages. Many adults opt for Invisalign.

Invisalign offers a series of clear, plastic aligners. Every few weeks you come in for a visit and receive a new plastic aligner. The aligners are nearly invisible. You can discretely remove them just before your meals. And, you put them back in after.

Orthodontics may be best if you are satisfied with the:

  • Shape and size of your teeth
  • Color of your teeth
  • Structure of your teeth – you do not have chips, cracks or minor breaks in your teeth

Pros and Cons of Veneers

As with any type of cosmetic treatment there are pros and cons to getting veneers.

Pros of Veneers

  • The cover gaps, misshapen teeth, a chipped tooth, and tooth stains
  • Choice of materials
  • Natural-looking, beautiful proportioned smile
  • Stain resistant
  • Rapid and sometimes dramatic results

Cons of Veneers

  • They are permanent
  • Conservative removal of enamel
  • Requires investment and maintenance

Pros and Cons of Braces

Braces pose their own advantages and disadvantages, whether they’re placed for cosmetic or dental health reasons:

Pros of Braces

  • Solves structural problems
  • Helps prevent oral issues through proper alignment of teeth
  • Give you options for care such as Invisalign, ceramic braces to match the color of your teeth, or traditional metal brackets and wires
  • Slow corrective change designed to last

Cons of Braces

  • Cannot change size or shape of teeth
  • Can take more than a year
  • Treatment can be uncomfortable

Braces or Veneers: Which Orthodontic Treatment is Best for Your Teeth?

There are many paths to a healthier, more attractive smile. Braces and invisible orthodontics are an excellent option for fixing your bite, straightening crooked teeth, and achieving proper alignment. Veneers can enhance your appearance by refining your entire smile. With veneers you can improve the shape and color of your teeth.

Dr. Frahm is an expert at helping people just like you. She has the knowledge and expertise to design dental treatment that improves your health and enhances your appearance. If you’re curious about your options for a better smile, please schedule a consultative visit. You may find that a single treatment, combination of care options, or a phased approach will help you reach your goals.

To schedule a smile consultation, please, contact Dr. Frahm today via our webform or give us a call at 831-372-8011. We are conveniently located office at 660 Camino Aguajito #201 in Monterey, CA 93940 and service patients from Monterey, Carmel, and Pacific Grove.

Dr. Sarah Frahm profile picture.

About Dr. Frahm

Dr. Frahm received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Iowa College of Dentistry in 2003. She completes more than 100 hours of postdoctoral training each year; earning recognition from dental experts around the country for her knowledge in the areas of cosmetic, general and restorative dentistry. Dr. Frahm is committed to providing you with excellent, comprehensive dental care. Dr. Frahm uses advanced dental techniques and technology to ensure your comfort and lasting results. View more of her achievements on our Meet Dr. Frahm page.

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