Dental Implants vs Veneers: Which Is Right for You?
There’s a good reason why the job outlook for dentists is expected to increase by four percent over the next decade. Not only do these professionals help us maintain our oral health, but they can also provide restorative dental procedures. These procedures have the potential to not only improve the appearance of a smile but also the functional aspect as well. These days, dental implants and veneers tend to be the most popular restorative procedures offered by dentists. But which one is right for you: dental implants vs. veneers?
If you aren’t sure, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll briefly walk you through what you can expect, as well as the pros and cons associated with both options.
What Are Dental Implants?
When a tooth is missing or damaged, it can be replaced with a dental implant. Through surgery, a man-made root is installed into the gum of the patient.
Specifically, titanium screws are fused with the jawbone. This is how dental implants differ from crowns. Crowns simply encase the tooth while dental implants replace the root itself.
The result is essentially a new permanent tooth. It’s nearly impossible to spot the difference between them, and your natural teeth (especially if they’re done on your back rows of teeth). Check out our full guide to learn more about the specifics of how dental implants replace teeth.
What Are Veneers?
Compared to dental implants, veneers are a much more casual cosmetic procedure. When you get a veneer you’re not replacing a tooth at all. Rather, porcelain or ceramic material coats the exterior of a damaged tooth.
Sometimes the tooth might be broken, discolored, or chipped. However, the tooth-colored material can cover up all of this. So how are veneers different from crowns? Crowns will apply the material to the entirety of your tooth.
Most types of veneers are usually only applied to the front of the tooth. As such, it’s more of a cosmetic procedure that’s designed to improve the appearance of your tooth.
Pros of Dental Implants
The biggest advantage associated with dental implants is their relatively permanent nature. Compared to things like removable dentures, implants retain stability while you’re eating.
There’s no fear of them falling or slipping out. What’s more, dental implants are extremely realistic looking. They can often restore confidence in a smile from someone insecure about their missing teeth or dentures.
Most types of dental implants can also help preserve both your jaw bone health, as well as any remaining teeth you have. In short, dental implants provide both the cosmetic value of veneers, as well as the permanent functionality of dentures.
Cons of Dental Implants
Because dental implants require both surgery and high-quality materials, they’re often one of the most expensive teeth replacement options you’ll encounter. As such, if you’re on a budget, or don’t have great dental insurance, you might be better off going with dentures.
What’s more, the recovery from dental implants is a lot more intensive. It’s not uncommon for the procedure to take several months to complete. This is especially true if you need to get damaged teeth removed first.
Pros of Veneers
One of the biggest pros of getting veneers is their appearance. Whether you suffer from a gapped tooth or simply some discoloration, veneers can work magic. Just look at this veneer makeover featuring Miss Kentucky Kaitlynne Postel.
The confidence that comes with getting a bright, straight smile can be hard to put a price tag on. However, speaking of price tags, veneers are far more affordable than procedures like dental implants.
Once more, the procedure is much quicker. You won’t need to wait months to get an appointment. Often, you’ll quickly be in and out of the office with your new smile.
Cons of Veneers
The major disadvantage of veneers is that they aren’t permanent. The porcelain or ceramic material is fragile, just like your regular teeth. As such, it can be prone to chips and breaks.
Stains are also quite common if you’re not actively cleaning your teeth. Generally speaking, if you take care of them you can usually expect your veneers to last around fifteen years.
It’s also important to note that not everyone can get veneers. If you grind your teeth at night or have an especially damaged tooth, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to put them on.
Many people with veneers are also more prone to sensitivities with hot or cold food because some of the enamel has been removed.
Dental Implants vs. Veneers: Which Is Right for You?
If you have one or more missing teeth, you should consider dental implants. The same goes if your tooth is so damaged it can’t be saved. Why? Because without the roots of your teeth in your jaw bones, the bone structure will gradually begin to shrivel away.
While jaw bone loss might not be as painful as it’s happening, it can eventually affect the way you talk and chew. As such, if you’re part of the 26% of adults with tooth loss, you should consider dental implants.
Not only will it improve your smile and tooth function, but it will also help halt the deterioration of your jaw bone. Veneers on the other hand should be used on natural teeth.
If you want to improve the appearance of your smile, whether that’s in shape or color, veneers can help you do it. Also, keep in mind that the two aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive.
If your dental implants are getting discolored, you can apply veneers over them to improve their appearance. If you still aren’t sure which option is right for you, consult with your dentist. From there you can work out a plan that best fits your needs and vision.
Ready for Your New Smile? Contact Justice Dental
We hope this guide helped you choose between dental implants vs. veneers. Here at Justice Dental, we know that no one likes going to the dentist. That’s why we do our best to create the most comfortable environment possible.
What’s more, we combine state-of-the-art dental technology with decades of combined expertise. That way, the final result is always worth any discomfort you might go through. So if you’re ready to restore your smile, schedule an appointment with us today.
