Are you embarrassed by your smile? Studies show that 78% of young people consider looks essential for self-confidence.
Many people avoid going to the dentist because they’re fearful or embarrassed by the state of their teeth or the appearance of their smile. But dentists have seen it all, and by avoiding your annual visit, you risk causing further damage or making existing issues more complex (and expensive) to fix.
Dental implants and veneers are two common and increasingly popular ways of improving someone’s smile.
Each has advantages and limitations, which you need to weigh and are used to treat different issues. This article aims to provide more information as you consider your options regarding dental implants vs. veneers to determine which is best for you. Keep reading to find out more.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are thin covers specifically made for your teeth. Dental professionals create them from either composite resin or porcelain to match the natural colour of your teeth. Veneers are often chosen when you want to improve your smile by addressing various cosmetic issues such as:
- Chips
- Cracks
- Uneven spacing
- Discolouration
- Misalignment
Veneers are a permanent option because they are permanently bonded to your teeth. This provides a natural-looking and long-lasting solution when you want a smile makeover.
Benefits of Veneers
When choosing between dental implants vs. veneers, you need to weigh up the pros and cons of each. Here are some benefits you might enjoy if you opt for veneers.
Discrete, Natural Looking Smile
Veneers are made to fit your tooth perfectly. For this reason, they can blend in with your natural teeth and, as such, are a discrete solution.
A Brighter Smile
You get a brighter smile because you can have multiple veneers. This is because they can be made to a shade you’re happy with. They can either be matched to the existing shade of your teeth or lightened, and your existing teeth whitened to match the new lighter colour so the appearance is seamless.
Low Maintenance
Nothing else must be done once your dental veneers are placed and bonded. This means there is no extra maintenance you need to do other than your usual brushing and flossing regularly.
More Stain Resistant
Dental veneers are made from specific materials that resist staining more than your natural teeth. This gives you a brighter smile for longer. This is especially true for porcelain veneers.
Long Life-Span
Your porcelain dental veneers can last between 10 to 15 years if cared for properly. This makes it a worthwhile long-term investment.
However, it is important to note that veneers have some potential drawbacks. They can be expensive, and they may only be suitable for some. Discussing your options with your dentist to see if veneers are right for you is essential.
Potential Risks of Veneers
Veneers are popular in places like Hollywood but have some potential risks. Some risks include:
Sensitive Teeth
One potential risk of getting veneers is increased tooth sensitivity. This can occur due to removing a small amount of enamel from the tooth surface during the veneer preparation. This is not an issue if you receive Low or No-Prep Veneers. This involves as much of the existing tooth as possible, with the new veneers seamlessly covering them without the need for enamel removal. This is the technique we use for porcelain veneers at Adelaide Cosmetic Dentistry.
Permanent Solution
Traditional techniques used to apply veneers are long-term dental procedures that involve removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the veneer. Once the enamel is removed, it cannot naturally be replaced. We use digital smile design and in-house digital fabrication techniques to minimise enamel loss using Low/No-Prep veneers. This retains as much of your original teeth as possible.
Changes in Color
There is a possibility that the colour of the veneer may not perfectly match your surrounding natural teeth. This can be especially noticeable if your natural teeth change colour over time due to factors like aging, staining, or dental trauma. Again, this can be treated using various techniques, including teeth whitening, to match the surrounding teeth to the colour of your new veneers.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are significantly different from dental veneers. They require surgery performed by an oral surgeon, periodontist or general dentist. Dental implant surgery is an excellent option for people with heavily damaged, rotten or missing teeth. A dental implant may be an option if you do not have natural teeth roots to support dentures or bridges.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants are not for everyone, but they have several advantages similar to dental veneers. Here are several benefits of dental implants.
Restores Chewing Ability
When someone has more than one tooth missing, it can become difficult to chew. Undergoing dental implant surgery replaces these missing teeth, allowing you to chew normally again.
Better Cosmetic Appearance
It’s difficult to smile when you have damaged or missing teeth. Dental implants replace these problem teeth, returning your full, natural smile. Dental implants are one of the best alternatives to natural teeth in terms of look and feel, and longevity.
Preserves Bones and Gums
Replacing the root allows the jawbone to continue being stimulated, just like a natural tooth does. Stimulating the jawbone naturally by replacing the root helps preserve bone mass.
Extra Stability
The jawbone itself secures dental implants, making them as secure as a natural tooth with a root. This is why dental implants are more stable than other types of dental restorations.
Potential Risks of Dental Implants
While dental implants may seem like the magic solution to your teeth problems, there are some associated risks. Some risks include:
Infection
Like any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection after getting dental implants. This can occur at the implant site or in the surrounding tissues. This is usually treated with antibiotics.
Nerve Damage
During the implant placement process, there is a possibility of damaging nerves near the treatment area. However, nerve damage is relatively rare and often temporary.
Bone Loss
Over time, if proper oral hygiene is not maintained, there is a risk of bone loss around the dental implants. This can lead to implant failure or a weakened foundation for the implant. This is one of the reasons patients are encouraged to attend regular 6-monthly hygiene appointments to maintain their oral health.
The Cost of Dental Implants vs. Veneers
Because veneers are cosmetic, they’re typically not covered by health insurance. This means you’ll have to pay from your own pocket if you want this dental procedure.
While both are relatively expensive, dental implants typically cost more. This is because the procedure is more complex than having dental veneers placed.
While pricing depends on several factors, typically, porcelain veneers start at approximately $1,000 to $2,000 each. On the other hand, dental implants cost an average of $1,500 – $5,000 per implant. Full-mouth dental implants can cost around $22,500 to 27,500 per arch. This is sometimes referred to as All-On-Four Dental Implants and involves the removal of your existing teeth. They are replaced with four or more implants on each arch, to which an entirely new set of teeth is added. This is an excellent alternative to removable dentures.
Find The Best Dentist in Your Area
Both dental implants and veneers are effective ways to improve your smile. However, weighing the pros and cons of dental implants vs. veneers before deciding is essential.
If you are looking for a less expensive, permanent solution resistant to staining, veneers may be the best choice. However, dental implants may be better if you have missing or heavily damaged teeth.
Are you concerned about your smile? Contact us at Adelaide Cosmetic Dentistry. We focus on cosmetic dentistry, have over 20 years of experience, and use state-of-the-art technology.
