If you are not satisfied with your smile and are searching for a reliable treatment, you are at the right place. Dental procedures can be confusing, expensive and painful. All these factors make them scary. Patients often get confused while deciding which one to choose. The first step is to reach an experienced dentist. Dentists will suggest multiple ways to make the desired changes to your smile. Dental implants and veneers are very common dental procedures that can fix multiple issues.

People generally experience the following issues with their teeth:

  • A broken tooth
  • A crack in a tooth
  • A cavity
  • A strange-shaped tooth
  • Discoloration

If you are not sure which treatment to take, you are not alone. It is important to know the difference between the two to make a decision. Read on to know more about these two dental implant methods.

Dental Implants vs Veneers – What’s the Difference?

Dental implants and veneers are both different procedures that deliver comparable results. A dental implant will replace the original tooth, while veneers will cover it up. The end result – a perfect smile.

For a missing tooth, you will be suggested dental implants. These are artificial teeth with roots. For a completely missing tooth, the dentist puts a metal post (usually titanium) into your jawbone. This acts as the root. A crown is then attached on top that looks like a real tooth. So, from the root to the tooth, this arrangement replaces it all.

On the other hand, if you are going to the dentist with a damaged tooth, either half broken, tilted or yellow, a veneer can cover it up. Veneers are thin shells (usually porcelain or composite resin). The dentist will plant it over the front of your existing damaged tooth. Thus, you will get a whiter, straighter or fuller, undamaged tooth. For a veneer placement, you don’t need to root out your natural tooth. It will stay in its place. The veneer will only cover it to make it appear perfect.

Dental Implants vs Veneers: Let’s see a comparison between the two.

Advantages of Dental Implants:

  1. Once the treatment is complete, all you need to do is wait for healing. No need to visit your dentist for years ahead.
  2. They will give you a natural teeth-kind look.  
  3. They keep the jawbone protected.
  4.  The implant stands on its own. No grinding of other healthy teeth is needed.
  5. Implants don’t need special cleaning routines. These can be cleaned just like other natural teeth.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants:

  1. Dental implants is a more expensive dental treatment. Also, insurance often doesn’t cover the treatment.
  2. The implants may take 3 to 6 months from implanting to healing.
  3. The procedure is an oral surgery to place the implant. It may have complications and would need an extended recovery time.
  4. Not everyone qualifies for the procedure. Your dentist will test you for enough jawbone and other health conditions before suggesting the procedure.
  5. You might need additional procedures before starting the implant procedure.

Advantages of Veneers:

  1. It takes less time than implants.
  2. It can be used to fix multiple issues at once like discoloration, gaps, crooked teeth and others.
  3. No surgery is needed for veneers.
  4. These look like your natural teeth.

Disadvantages of Veneers:

  1. Every ten to fifteen years, you would need to replace your veneers.
  2. The process can’t be reversed.
  3. Your teeth might become sensitive as the process involves removing the enamel.
  4. Your veneers would need extra care and avoid hard foods.

Clearly, both are beneficial and unfavourable for some reasons.  

Choose implants if:

  • You are missing one or more teeth completely
  • You want a permanent solution
  • You have good bone density
  • You have a good budget
  • You want results like natural tooth

Choose veneers if:

  • You want to change the appearance of your teeth
  • You want faster results
  • You have multiple cosmetic issues to fix
  • You are okay with eventual replacement
  • You want a less invasive procedure

About the cost, veneers would cost less than dental implants. But veneers would need replacement in a few years. Most dental treatments are considered cosmetic and won’t be covered in health insurance. You can ask your dentist about a payment plan available.

The Bottom Line

It depends on your expectations and your dentist’s understanding, deciding which one is best for you. These factors will decide the treatment. Your dentist can even suggest an alternative if possible. Your teeth structure and mouth are unique. They need a tailored care plan, which only an expert can suggest.

After getting your implants or veneers, make sure:

  • You brush and floss regularly
  • Be gentle with oral cleaning
  • Avoid smoking
  • Visit your dentist regularly
  • Avoid eating hard foods
  • Avoid opening hard material using your teeth

Your teeth let you eat properly and maintain good health. They are an important part of your overall personality. They, too, deserve gentle care, so be gentle with them to keep them strong and shiny for years.

Oxnard is home to some of the best dental treatment providers. Beach Cities Dental Group lies at the top. The dental team has been serving in the industry for decades. For the best dental care in Oxnard, CA, call them today.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do dental implants need regular replacement?

No, once the treatment is completed, dental implants can last 25 years or more without needing replacement. If needed, the crown on top can be replaced after 10-15 years.

Are veneers painful to get?

Today’s dentists will numb your mouth before the treatment starts. You can experience mild sensitivity, but there is no intense pain.

Can I get veneers on just a few teeth?

Yes, but only your dentist can suggest the best option. Generally, veneers for the front teeth is recommended to match the appearance.

What are the chances of failure in a dental implant?

Extremely low, but if it happens, these can be removed by a dentist.