Dental Implants vs. Veneers
When you damage a tooth, it can be a painful and frustrating experience, especially when you are uncertain of what dental procedure will work best for you. With so much information out there about dental implants and veneers, it can be difficult to tell which procedure will best suit your needs.
At Severn Dentistry & Orthodontics, we have put together a guide to dental implants and veneers to help you make the right choice.
What You Should Know About Veneers
A veneer covers the front surface of the damaged tooth. These are thin tooth-colored shells made of porcelain or ceramic that can be used to conceal a chipped or broken tooth. They can also correct gaps or stained teeth.
Veneers are attached to the teeth using dental adhesive. They can help create a straight smile while also concealing flaws. Veneers are applied to the top and bottom teeth to improve their appearance and are most suitable for the front teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
Rather than covering the damaged tooth, a dental implant is used to replace a damaged or missing tooth. A dental implant is made up of a metal post, which replaces the tooth root, and an artificial tooth which replaces the damaged or missing tooth. These artificial teeth will look and function like real teeth. Implants completely replace the tooth, whereas a crown encases the tooth.
To replace a missing or damaged tooth, a titanium metal post is inserted into your jawbone so it can use with the implant. A crown restoration is then done to protect the implant and provide you with a natural-looking, fully functional tooth.
Pros of Veneers
Veneers can be done much quicker than implants which makes them the fastest way to cover up damaged or stained teeth. After just a few trips to your dentist, you can have your veneers placed and a brand-new smile to show off.
Veneers are also very affordable when compared to other cosmetic dentistry options.
Cons of Veneers
Compared to dental implants, veneers are more prone to breaking, staining, and chipping, lasting about 10-15 years. You may need veneers placed on multiple teeth to get the most natural-looking smile. Veneers will not work for everyone. Those with weak teeth or issues with grinding their teeth will likely need to consider other options. Veneers can also increase your sensitivity to hot and cold drinks, and foods since some of your enamel may be removed during the procedure.
Pros of Dental Implants
Dental implants can completely replace a missing or damaged tooth that cannot be covered by a veneer. A dental implant is a great option for those who do not want the hassle of using dentures. Dental implants are stable and remain in place while eating and drinking. Dental implants are also made up of materials that are resistant to decay and gum problems, and they also help preserve the surrounding teeth and jawbone.
Cons of Dental Implants
Dental implants are designed to be durable and high-quality, so they are often more expensive than other cosmetic dental procedures. This procedure will require multiple trips to the dentist to complete. Depending on your treatment plan, it may take several months to get the imaging, remove the damaged tooth, repair your jawbone, place your implant/implants, and place the crown.
Which Dental Procedure is Right for Me?
At Severns Dentistry, we recommend that you consider the following when trying to determine which procedure is right for you:
How damaged is your tooth?
For those with severely damaged teeth, you will likely need to get a dental implant to fully replace the tooth. You will also get the long-term benefit of avoiding infection and complications that can come with keeping the tooth. Implants work well for teeth that have broken off at the gum line, whereas veneers work best to fix minor tooth damage such as spacing, stains, and chips.
Do you need any bite correction?
When you lose a tooth, it can cause your bite to become misaligned or must compensate for other dental issues. This can make eating, chewing, and talking more difficult. A dental implant can prevent this misalignment by filling in the gap and building up the gum tissue and jawbone, which can correct the alignment. Veneers simply improve the aesthetic gapped or poorly spaced teeth, but they do not actually correct your bite.
How much longevity are you seeking?
It is important to look at the longevity of these cosmetic procedures. While veneers will last about ten years, they are not permanent and will require replacement or adjustment at some point. They are also more prone to damage.
Dental implants are the other hand, will not require attention from your dentist unless they become damaged. Veneers are a quicker option, but keep in mind you will need continued appointments and replacements to keep them looking their best.
Ready to Achieve Your Dream Smile?
At Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics , our cosmetic dentistry procedures are customized to meet your needs to ensure you achieve a confident, stunning smile. From veneers to dental implants, McMurray patients and those in the surrounding areas can trust Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics to provide them with quality care and amazing results!
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
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Author:
Natalie Severns, DMD
Upon graduating from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Severns specialized in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. She then did an externship in London, England, at the prestigious Guy’s Hospital. At this hospital, she learned top therapies in Dentofacial Orthopedics to provide her patients with the best possible facial esthetics.
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