Porcelain Veneers vs. Invisalign^®: Understanding Their Different Purposes

If you’re thinking about improving your smile, you might be considering Invisalign aligners or porcelain veneers. Both options can give you a confidence boost, but they work in very different ways. Invisalign aligners are primarily for orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth, while veneers are for cosmetic improvements to enhance the appearance of teeth. Understanding how each option works can help you decide which is right for your needs and your smile goals.

Understanding Invisalign treatment and porcelain veneers

What is Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign treatment is designed to straighten teeth and correct alignment issues. Invisalign treatment uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gently move your teeth into place over time. Unlike traditional metal braces, there are no brackets or wires to deal with, and you can take the aligners out for meals, brushing, and flossing. This flexibility makes it easy to enjoy the foods you love while keeping your smile clean and healthy.

In addition to convenience, Invisalign aligners can support healthier gums¹ and enable better oral hygiene,² as it allows you to remove and brush and floss unlike other treatment modalities. Invisalign treatment is a clinically effective option that delivers noticeable changes in as little as six months.³

What are porcelain veneers?

Porcelain veneers are primarily used for cosmetic improvements, such as changing the shape, size, or color of teeth. Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth.⁴ They’re designed to match the color and shape of your teeth, creating a seamless and natural look.⁴ Veneers are also highly durable and resist staining better than natural enamel, which can help your smile stay bright over time.⁴

What cases do they treat?

Which issues can Invisalign aligners correct?

Invisalign aligners are used to treat orthodontic issues that range from crowded or crooked teeth, spacing between the teeth, and certain bite problems. If you’re wondering whether Invisalign treatment can treat your smile, take the Invisalign Smile Quiz to get a quick assessment.

Which issues can porcelain veneers correct?

Porcelain veneers are chosen for cosmetic improvement. They are bonded to the front of teeth and can change the shape, size, or color of the teeth, making them a popular option for addressing chips, cracks, or discoloration of teeth.⁴

What’s the treatment process is like?

What is the Invisalign treatment process like?

Invisalign treatment begins with a consultation during which your concerns and objectives are discussed. Your orthodontist or dentist will utilize the iTero Element™ scanner to generate a 3D image of your teeth, enabling the design of custom aligners that progressively improve your smile. A comprehensive treatment plan will be provided, including a preview of the anticipated results.

When you receive your first set of aligners, your doctor will check their fit and make sure you feel comfortable wearing them. You’ll have follow-up appointments along the way so your progress can be closely monitored. Once your treatment is complete, you’ll wear Vivera™ retainers to help keep your smile looking its best.

What is the porcelain veneers process like?

The process starts with your dentist removing a small amount of enamel to prepare your teeth.⁴ Next, impressions are taken to create your custom veneers.⁴ Since it can take a few weeks for the lab to create them, your dentist may provide a temporary set to wear in the meantime.⁴

Once your personalized veneers are ready, they are carefully bonded to your teeth using dental cement.⁴ With proper care, they can last 10 to 15 years.⁴ It’s important to know that this is a permanent treatment, since some natural enamel is removed during preparation.⁴

Cost Comparison

How much does Invisalign treatment cost?

The cost of Invisalign treatment depends on the complexity of your case and how many aligners you need. In most cases, the cost of Invisalign aligners is comparable to the cost of braces. Your exact pricing will be determined by your Invisalign provider based on your unique treatment needs.

Dental insurance may help with costs, as you might qualify for up to $3,000 in coverage for orthodontic treatment.⁵ To verify your insurance coverage, you may contact your dental health insurance provider directly or consult a qualified dental health professional. Alternatively, you can download the My Invisalign™ app to efficiently determine the extent of coverage your dental insurance offers for Invisalign treatment.

How much do porcelain veneers cost?

The cost of porcelain veneers varies, so it’s important to discuss options with your provider. On average, porcelain veneers cost between $900 and $1,200 per tooth.⁶ Since dental veneers are considered a cosmetic procedure, they are usually not covered by insurance.

Invisalign aligners vs. porcelain veneers: The bottom line

Invisalign aligners and porcelain veneers serve different purposes for enhancing your smile. Invisalign treatment focuses on straightening teeth and correcting alignment issues gradually, while porcelain veneers provide a quicker option for cosmetic improvements like discoloration, chips, or shaping concerns. Both Invisalign aligners and porcelain veneers offer noticeable results, each tailored to different needs.

Choosing the right option for you

When deciding between porcelain veneers and Invisalign, it's essential to consider your specific needs and goals. If your primary concern is the appearance of your teeth and you want to address issues like discoloration, chips, or gaps, porcelain veneers may be the best option. However, if you have misaligned teeth or bite issues that need correction, Invisalign is likely the more appropriate choice.

It's important to consult with a dental professional who can assess your individual situation and recommend the best treatment plan for you. They can provide guidance on the benefits and limitations of each option, helping you make an informed decision.

In conclusion, both porcelain veneers and Invisalign offer unique benefits for improving your smile. By understanding their different purposes and consulting with a dental professional, you can choose the treatment that best meets your needs and helps you achieve the smile you've always wanted.

Want to explore Invisalign treatment?

Use the Doctor Locator tool to find a nearby Invisalign provider who can answer questions, assess your needs, and customize a treatment plan that suits you and your budget.