Popular treatments for a less-than-perfect smile include traditional braces and porcelain veneers.
Both options are available, but which is the better choice: veneers or braces? For most people, the thought of unsightly braces is enough to put them off visiting the orthodontist in the first place.
As a result, those already struggling with self-confidence might feel that porcelain veneers are the better option, and so the choice between braces or veneers wouldn’t even be entertained.
In some cases, porcelain veneers may be an excellent solution instead of following the regular course of orthodontics. However, this depends on several factors. This guide will look at braces and veneers and how each benefits your oral health.
Veneers vs Braces?
Is it better to get veneers or braces?
Traditional braces have been used for many years to straighten crooked teeth and fix other issues requiring orthodontic intervention – and it’s safe to say they get great results.
Veneers are fast becoming an alternative course of treatment to braces, as they can also be used as a treatment for crooked teeth.
Furthermore, they can improve the overall appearance of your teeth and cover stains, damage, and other issues such as cracks and chips.
To help you decide on what treatment is best for your needs, let’s take a quick look at what each is and the pros and cons of both:
Braces
Braces provide a permanent solution to orthodontic issues and require little in terms of maintenance besides good oral hygiene. Once the treatment is complete, patients simply wear a removable retainer at night to maintain the position of their teeth. There are three types of teeth straightening braces:
- Clear aligners
- Fixed braces
- Fixed lingual braces
Lingual braces are brackets fitted to the back of teeth, and clear aligners are removable transparent retainers.
| Pros | Cons |
| Correct structural issues like overbites, gaps, and crossbites. | Treatment times can take months or years. |
| Permanent solution once treatment is complete. | Traditional braces can appear noticeable |
| Minimal maintenance | |
| Discreet options available. | |
| Budget-friendly. |
Veneers
Dental veneers are often called “instant orthodontics” because of their ability to provide an instant solution or quick fix for dental issues requiring cosmetic dentistry.
Misaligned teeth, chips, and small gaps can negatively impact self-confidence. However, popular treatments such as veneers provide patients with the speedy solution they require when chasing the dream of a beautiful smile.
The great thing about porcelain veneers is that they can be customised to suit your preferences regarding shape, size, and colour.
| Pros | Cons |
| Quick results | Does not correct the underlying orthodontic issues. |
| Can cover cosmetic imperfections | More expensive than braces |
| Can give a natural, bright appearance | Will need to be replaced in the future |
Braces vs Veneers: What’s Best For You?
When considering braces vs veneers, the main difference between each treatment is that braces move your teeth while veneers cover your teeth.
Veneers may hide imperfections such as gaps and misaligned teeth, but they don’t actually fix the problem. However, they are an excellent solution in terms of a quick fix, and this is something you should discuss during your initial consultation.
It must be said that not every individual is a good candidate for veneers.
Complex dental issues can mean that additional orthodontic work is required, and this can mean that porcelain veneers as a treatment option for you are off the cards.
Dental Veneers are a good choice for you if
- You have minor gaps between your teeth.
- You don’t have overlapping teeth.
- You want whiter teeth or to cover stains.
- You have minor cosmetic issues such as chips, stains, or cracks.
Braces, however, are used to fix orthodontic issues and provide a permanent solution. The problem is that their solution can take a long time, and this can be rather frustrating for those who want a beautiful smile in a short time.
Braces are a good choice for you if
- You have a bad bite.
- You have too much space between your teeth.
- You have overlapping and crooked teeth.
- You have an overjet (teeth sticking out).
Consulting your orthodontist or general dentist can help you decide whether you are a good candidate for braces or veneers.
What Are The Costs Of Veneers vs Braces?
Today, a primary deciding factor between braces and veneers for straighter teeth is the cost, and whether your teeth are in good condition before starting or not.
Veneers can be costly and range between £500 and £2,500 per tooth, depending on the type of veneer you choose.
Although this may seem like an excessive sum to pay, they have a long lifespan, strengthen your teeth, look great, and provide an excellent confidence boost!
If you are wondering why veneers vs braces are so expensive, the reason is due to the labour that goes into creating them. Dental veneers are created in a ceramic lab by ceramic technicians.
The good news is that the entire process takes 2-3 days, but this, coupled with the need to schedule multiple appointments required for fitting and the lab fee, escalates the price of porcelain veneers.
Braces can also be costly and depend on the brace type and whether you have private or NHS-based care. However, braces for children up to the age of 18 years are free as long as they are medically necessary.
Unfortunately, you won’t get veneers on the NHS, but if you still want veneers and have concerns about the price, speak to us.
Monthly repayments can start from £16 a month for the simplest treatments. Here is an example of different treatments and finance options.