Dental Veneers vs. Braces Q&A

Veneers and braces are two popular choices when it comes to improving the appearance of your smile. While both procedures can improve the appearance of your smile, there are many differences between them. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells designed to cover the front surface of your teeth to cover up imperfections, such as stained, crooked, or broken teeth. They can be made from porcelain or composite material, and they are an ideal option for people with stained, chipped, or misshaped teeth.

Braces, on the other hand, are an orthodontic procedure designed to straighten the teeth and improve misalignments, among other imperfections. This semi-permanent option slowly re-positions the teeth to improve the bite, alignment, and overall appearance of the teeth. Braces are ideal for people with mild to severe dental imperfections; it is important to note, however, that pare-existing dental health problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease, should be addressed before getting braces or veneers.

Yes, it is possible to get braces with veneers; however, the brackets will not adhere to the surface of veneers as effectively as they would on real teeth, so it may not be recommended. Furthermore, the need for veneers may be reduced if teeth are straightened and properly spaced. Because of this, it is typically recommended to get braces before veneers. Braces are much more efficacious when they directly adhere to the teeth; this is how they re-position them to create a straight smile. Talk to your dentist about getting braces if you have veneers, or call Nu Smile Dental & Orthodontics today, and one of our dental professionals will be happy to assist you!

It is no secret that dental procedures can be expensive, but there is a lot that goes into each treatment, including individualized aspects unique to each patient. Veneers and braces are two popular dental options; of the two, veneers generally cost less than braces, at least when comparing initial price points. Veneers can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,500, depending on make and model; orthodontic treatment options can cost anywhere from $1,700 to $12,000, depending on the method used.

Yes, it is possible to skip braces and opt for veneers right away instead, but this approach is typically not recommended. Because straightened teeth can eliminate the need for veneers and improve overall oral health, it is typically recommended to get braces before veneers; this can make veneers look better, and also improve the ability to maintain good oral hygiene. In addition to this, other dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease, should be addressed before getting veneers. While veneers can cover up dental aesthetic problems, they cannot cure oral diseases; in fact, they may even make it harder to discern when tooth decay occurs, so it is imperative to ensure the teeth and gums are in good health before getting veneers.

Come to Nu Smile Dental & Orthodontics for all of your dental and oral health needs. Contact us today or book an online appointment with our dentist, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 1319 Blossom Hill Road, San Jose, CA 95118. We serve patients from San Jose CA, Laos Gators CA, Campbell CA, Santa Clara CA, Couperin CA, Sunnyvale CA, Saratoga CA, and Mountain View CA. We look forward to serving you!