What you don’t see on Instagram

Many cosmetic dental treatments marketed as veneers – especially those performed abroad – actually involve more invasive procedures like crowns. This is especially true when the teeth are crowded or uneven. In these cases, veneers alone may not be enough to create the look someone wants, and crowns may be recommended instead.

The difference? Veneers typically involve removing a thin layer of enamel, while crowns require significantly more of the tooth to be shaved down. In some cases, teeth are filed into small stubs to make room – which can weaken them and increase the risk of complications later on.

It’s a process that prioritises speed and aesthetics over preserving healthy, natural teeth.

Before you choose crowns or veneers

While crowns and veneers can transform a smile, they’re not always a one-time fix. They can break, come loose or need replacing every 10–15 years – and that’s if they’re well-made and carefully maintained.

More concerningly, heavily prepped teeth are more prone to issues like nerve damage. In the years after treatment, some patients may need root canal therapy or further restorations.

This is especially important to consider if you’re travelling abroad for treatment. If something goes wrong, you won’t be able to pop in and speak to your dentist – and UK clinics may be reluctant to treat or adjust work carried out elsewhere.

Why braces could be a better option

If your teeth are healthy but crooked or crowded, orthodontic treatment could offer a safer, more sustainable solution.

Braces – whether traditional or clear options like Invisalign or Angel Aligners – work with your natural teeth, gradually moving them into a straighter, healthier position. There’s no need to file down enamel or place crowns. You get to keep your teeth intact, and your smile improves from the inside out.

In some cases, a technique called IPR (interproximal reduction) may be recommended. This involves removing very small amounts of enamel from between certain teeth to help with spacing and alignment. It’s a minimal, controlled process that doesn’t harm the health or strength of your teeth.

Treatment may take longer than a cosmetic makeover, but the results are yours to keep – provided you wear your retainers long term. Retainers are an essential part of any orthodontic treatment, helping to maintain your results and prevent teeth from shifting back over time.

You’ll also be supported every step of the way, with in-person appointments and expert care here in the UK.

A smile that lasts

At Splash Orthodontics, we believe in doing things the right way – not the fastest way. Your smile is for life, and we’re here to help you protect it.

If you’re considering veneers or crowns to fix crowded or misaligned teeth, come and talk to us first. You might be surprised at what’s possible with modern orthodontics – no drilling required.

Book a free consultation with our specialist orthodontists in Hove and get personalised advice on the best way to achieve a straighter, healthier smile.