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    • Sep 21, 2022

Invisalign® vs. Veneers

Updated: Nov 26, 2023

Should you choose Clear Aligners like Invisalign® or veneers for a straighter smile?


You’ve decided you want straight teeth. Maybe you’ve already investigated the array of treatments on the market. But, have you narrowed it down yet? Commonly, people arrive at two main choices, and they look to compare clear aligners like Invisalign® vs veneers. But how do you know which option is the best for you? Let’s take a closer look.


An Overview of Clear Aligners


Clear aligner systems like Invisalign® (just one of many suppliers of clear aligners) make use of clear trays to straighten your teeth and realign your smile. This option means you can achieve a stunning smile without having to wear traditional metal braces. The aligners aren’t just less obvious than their metal counterparts, aligners can actually be more effective than braces at dealing with certain types of orthodontic problems.


What’s more, they are more comfortable and make cleaning your teeth after every meal a whole lot easier than metal braces.


Many adults prefer clear aligners such as Invisalign® when they want to correct dental issues like overlapping teeth, ‘buck teeth’, overbites, cross-bites, underbites and spacing problems.



An Overview of Porcelain Veneers


Veneers can also be a good way to improve your smile, with obvious differences compared to clear aligners. Rather than slowly rearranging and realigning the teeth as aligners like Invisalign® do, Porcelain Veneers are bonded to existing teeth. Your clinician will apply a thin layer of porcelain to your existing tooth enamel to improve the colour, shape and overall look of each tooth.


Veneers can help improve tooth shape, and are useful for chipped, damaged or discoloured teeth. They can also help close the appearance of any gaps.


Unlike aligners, veneers often involve re-shaping or reducing the natural tooth underneath
Unlike aligners, veneers often involve re-shaping or reducing the natural tooth underneath

Aligners like Invisalign® vs Veneers: Which Is Better for You?


Aligners involves straightening your existing teeth, veneers involve a porcelain layer placed on individual teeth. Depending on your dental needs and the problems you seek to address, one option will likely heavily outweigh the other.


In some cases both aligners and veneers are a good option. If you want to change the alignment of your teeth AND you want to change the appearance and/or shape you may want to consider Invisalign® followed by veneers. Keep in mind though, that veneers do require maintenance & may need to be re-applied after a decade or so.


A study conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry discovered that 48 percent of people believe a smile is the most memorable part of someone they first meet. So, it’s little wonder we strive for brighter, straighter smiles. It’s just a matter of deciding which option is best for you.


Of course, the easiest way to make an informed decision is to discuss aligners vs veneers with your dentist and orthodontist or book a free* assessment to find out which choice is more suitable for your particular needs.


Straightening your own teeth with aligners will give a healthy, long-lasting and natural-looking result
Straightening your own teeth with aligners will give a healthy, long-lasting and natural-looking result

*If orthodontic X-rays are required, a fee of $180 applies. See Terms and Conditions. Treatment may not be suitable for you.


These Products are not available for purchase by the general public. They are however available to Fine Orthodontics patients. Always read the label and follow the instructions for use.


 

Find out more about Invisalign®:

 

Specialist Orthodontist Input by Dr Martin Fine BDS, MSc, MSc

Dr Martin Fine

Dr Martin Fine

Specialist Orthodontist Dr Martin Fine, BDS, MSc (Orthodontics), is based in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs. With over 30 years' experience in private practice, Dr Fine has expertise working with a wide variety of orthodontic appliances, including braces and Invisalign. He has presented at orthodontic conferences globally, and has taught postgraduate orthodontic students at the University of Sydney. Dr Fine is a member of both the AAO (American Association of Orthodontists) and the ASO (Australian Society of Orthodontists), and is a former president of the Alpha-Omega Dental Society's Sydney Chapter.  In the past, Dr Fine's research has been featured in the Angle Orthodontist journal. Dr Fine is committed to providing outstanding patient care using the latest and most effective techniques. Most recently, Dr Fine has developed and introduced the innovative FineLine clear aligner system, which has been specifically developed to meet the needs of patients at Fine Orthodontics.

Written by Danielle Long

Danielle Long

Danielle Long.png

Danielle Long has been assisting in the creation of beautiful smiles at Fine Orthodontics for over 15 years. Holding graduate qualifications in English and Education (BA/BEd UNSW), Dani brings a unique blend of knowledge to her role. She has worked in many different areas of the practice, having served as both Clinical Assistant and Treatment Coordinator over the years. Continually fascinated by the art and science behind orthodontics, Dani is always keen to share her knowledge in order to enhance patient understanding and experience. Dani focuses on facilitating exceptional patient communication and delivering in-depth orthodontic treatment information. She strives to ensure that every individual embarking on their orthodontic journey with Fine Orthodontics feels informed and supported.

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