Veneers and Implants are effective ways to create a fuller, healthier smile. Both procedures correct gaps, chips, discoloration, and missing teeth to give you more confidence in your smile. So how do you know which procedure is right for you?
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about dental veneers and implants.
What is a Dental Veneer?
Veneers are a common cosmetic dentistry tool used to correct tooth discoloration, chips, tooth gaps, and other minor tooth damage. Similar to crowns, veneers sit on top of your natural teeth to create a more durable exterior.
Dental veneers are made from durable layers of material that can be bonded to the front of your teeth. There are two types of veneers: Composite Veneers and Porcelain Veneers. Porcelain veneers are more durable, but they can also be more expensive.
Veneers sit over the surface of a tooth, working with your natural teeth to create a whiter and fuller smile.
What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are similar to dental veneers in that they improve the cosmetic and functionality of your smile. Dental implants are artificial teeth made to replace heavily damaged or missing teeth.
This procedure involves inserting a titanium implant into the patient’s jawbone to secure the artificial tooth in place. The implant functions as a normal tooth would, allowing the patient to eat, talk, and smile more effectively.
A dental implant procedure is longer and more involved than veneers and can take several months.
How to Decide Which Dental Procedure is Right for You
Both dental implants and veneers can have great benefits in improving a patient’s smile and overall dental health. It can be difficult to identify which option is best for your specific dental needs. Here’s an outline of how to determine which dental procedure is best for you.
How Damaged Is Your Tooth?
The right procedure for a particular patient depends on the amount of damage to the tooth. Typically, a more damaged tooth is more suited to a dental implant. An artificial tooth would be necessary if the tooth is too damaged to function properly. In the case of a missing tooth, dental implants offer a more appropriate solution.
More minor damage can be addressed by dental veneers. Veneers work as a cover, offering additional protection to the existing tooth underneath. They often serve mainly as a cosmetic solution, providing an alternative appearance to a tooth.
Do You Need Bite Correction?
If you need a bite correction, dental implants may be the better option for you. Dental implants work well when implementing bite corrections from missing teeth. Implants fill gaps from missing teeth to correct bite alignment. Veneers can address any cosmetic needs from smaller gaps between teeth but do not improve any functionality issues that might arise.
How Permanent is the Solution?
Implants are more permanent than veneers. They are designed to last forever and will only require additional procedures if they become damaged. Veneers, on the other hand, typically last between 10-15 years. Veneers will require realignment and maintenance after about 10 years.
How Much Do Implants Cost vs Veneers?
Both dental implants and veneers are customized, quality solutions for damaged teeth. However, they involve high-quality materials and a significant amount of dentistry work to implant which can increase their cost.
The cost for each procedure can vary depending on the patient. Dental veneers cost somewhere between $1,000 and $4,000 per veneer. Dental implants can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $4,500.
However, additional costs may also be associated with each procedure. Veneers will create additional costs through servicing and maintenance needs, typically every 10 years or so. Implants can have additional costs if supplementary procedures are needed, such as bone grafts. Bone grafts are necessary when there is too much bone damage to properly support and stabilize the implant.
These costs may seem high but are an affordable option when compared to alternative dental procedures.
Dental insurance may also cover much of the costs of these procedures for patients who need them. Check with your dental insurance provider to see what your out-of-pocket costs may be.
How Can We Help
Ready to become more confident in your smile? We’re here to answer your cosmetic dentistry questions.
EVDP is a full-service family practice that provides top-quality care for local patients. Give us a call at (480) 838-3033.