Braces, Invisalign, or veneers

Braces are attached to the teeth throughout treatment and can treat a wide range of malocclusions, including severe bites and crooked teeth. They tend to work faster than other treatments but remain visible.

Clear aligners are nearly invisible plastic shells that apply gentle pressure to reposition teeth. They can be removed to eat and brush, but usually treat light to moderate alignment problems and can be lost.

Porcelain veneers are generally the more expensive veneer option. Composite veneers can require less enamel removal and fewer visits, while braces and aligners are a course of orthodontic tooth movement rather than a veneer restoration.

Braces stay attached for the duration of treatment, while aligners are removable each day. Veneers are bonded to the tooth and can chip, crack, wear down or loosen over time, when they may need re-bonding, repair or replacement.

Hard and sticky foods can damage braces. Porcelain veneer placement removes a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of the tooth, and veneers can later chip, crack, wear or loosen.

Veneers change the visible front surface of a tooth but do not reposition it. A veneer is a thin porcelain shell or tooth-coloured composite bonded to the front of the tooth.

Begin with the change you want: braces or aligners move teeth, whereas veneers alter the visible front surface. Braces cover a wider range of bite and crooked-tooth problems; removable aligners usually suit light to moderate alignment issues.