Choosing the right procedure to fix missing teeth can be difficult and painful. Dental implants and veneers are both procedures used to treat several issues in our mouths. Selecting the best dental treatment for a fractured tooth might be challenging given the choice between veneers and dental implants.
Check out our blog post on dental veneers vs. implants to discover more about your cosmetic dentistry alternatives. We will answer any questions you may have about dental procedures, such as how long veneers and dental implants last and if dental implants are more affordable than veneers, so you can make an informed decision.
What Are Dental Implants?
Artificial tooth roots intended to firmly attach the new tooth to the gums are used in dental implants to replace a broken or missing tooth. Crowns cover the surface of the tooth, whereas implants replace the tooth entirely, including the roots. Dental implants are strong enough to survive for many years since they permanently replace a tooth, making them incredibly solid and durable.
When a tooth is lost and an implant is used to replace it, titanium metal fragments are fused into the jawbone. To safeguard the implant, a crown restoration completes the process. When everything is said and done, the result will resemble a natural tooth almost exactly, especially if the implant is in a rear tooth where the iron root is less obvious.
Dental Implant Pros
Unlike veneers dental implants cover the missing tooth entirely and not just by the surface. This procedure has many advantages because it is implanted in the jaw and works exactly like natural teeth, it provides stability and security and they will also not slip from the mouth while eating or speaking, unlike dentures.
Dental implants are a great choice because they sit comfortably in your mouth and provide a natural and healthy feeling. Another huge advantage that makes them so preferable is that the implant itself lasts a lifetime and does not need replacing. Implants will not cause any health issues because their consistency makes it possible for them to resist decay and gum problems while being able to maintain the health of the nearby teeth and jawbone.
Last A Lifetime
As we mentioned before the implant itself can last a lifetime, even though the artificial tooth placed above may need replacement. It is also important to take proper care of your teeth just like you would do with your natural teeth. You should also visit your dentist regularly which means at least twice a year. During the visits, they will do a thorough visit and asses if there is anything wrong with the implant.
Restore Jaw And Roots
If you have missing teeth and you do not treat them for a very long time, the bone will begin to be absorbed and this will make your face look sunken and older. During the dental implant procedure, the dentist will surgically install the metal screws in your jawbone. This will serve as the root of the tooth, providing stability and since it acts as a replacement tooth, it will stop the deterioration of the bone growth.
Dental Implant Cons
One factor that you should consider before getting dental implants is that since they are high in quality and are designed to last a long time they will cost more compared to other dental procedures.
It may also take some time depending on the exact treatment plan. The dental implant procedure can include receiving imaging, extracting the broken tooth, prepping the jawbone, putting the implant, and covering it with a crown, which can take several months. Some people may not have this much time on their hands so they should talk to the doctor about their options.
Requires Surgery
The dental implant procedure is considered a surgical procedure. During the procedure, the tooth needs to be installed into your jawbone, but this is not just it. The surgery can still require jawbone grafting, teeth extraction, installation of the implant and abutment, and the implantation of the artificial tooth. The surgery will be done in just one visit but it can take some time to heal so you should be patient. However, you should consult with the dentist several times beforehand. He will explain how to take care of the implant and give you the proper advice on how to take care of it after the procedure is done. Because incisions will be made you can experience some pain, swelling, or bruising.
Candidates For Dental Implants
If you are considering getting dental implants you should be in a healthy condition. The dentist will do a thorough checkup of your oral health and do the proper examination to see if your jawbone is sufficient to hold the implant. He will also advise you to avoid smoking because it will take longer for your gums to heal.
Risks Of Dental Implants
Due to the fact that dental implants are still considered surgical procedures, they can carry risks such as infection, bleeding, and anesthesia issues. Occasionally, challenges encountered during the osseointegration process might lead to implant failure. Damage to nerves or tissues may also be a small danger during surgery. Additionally, if more treatments are needed, the cost may increase. These are some factors you should consider discussing with your dentist during the initial consultation.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
Different from dental implants, dental veneers just covers the front surface of a damaged tooth. They are usually, made of porcelain or ceramic, and can be used to fix a variety of aesthetic dental issues, such as cracks, fractures, stains, and gaps in teeth. A dental adhesive will be used to bond them with your natural teeth and the results will be amazing. They can fix dental issues in both top and bottom teeth, enhancing their natural appearance. Usually, veneers are more suitable for frontal teeth.
Porcelain Veneer Pros
A veneer is the quickest option to cover up years of wear and tear on your teeth because the treatment is far shorter than getting dental implants and less invasive. You might have your veneers in place and your smile ready after only a few visits to the dentist. If you compare it to other cosmetic dental treatments, veneers are very reasonably priced, making them a great choice.
Last Years
Veneers are not a permanent solution but they will last for a very long time if you take care of them properly. They are also very resistant so it will take a lot of time before you see any damage or staining.
Strictly For Cosmetic Purposes
It is important to know that veneers serve a different purpose than dental implants and will change your teeth only on a cosmetic level. They will not help you with bone growth and will not fix your teeth’ entire structure including the roots. One thing that they will do is provide you with a whiter, prettier smile that will give you a confidence boost and make you feel a lot better.
Porcelain Veneer Cons
Veneers will mostly last for about 15 years. This is due to the fact that they are more fragile and more prone to breaking, chipping, or staining. Getting veneers on several teeth could also be necessary to produce the most symmetrical, natural-looking smile. Another con of veneers is that they are not for everyone. People who grind their teeth or have genetically weak teeth may have to consider other treatments. Also, the dentist may need to grind some of the tooth enamel in order for the veneer to stick and this may make the teeth more sensitive to cold and hot foods.
Candidates For Porcelain Veneers
Ideal candidates for porcelain veneers are mostly people who have cosmetic dental concerns like stained, discolored, chipped, or cracked teeth. Also, they may be perfect if your teeth are misaligned and have small irregularities in them. The patient’s teeth should also be in good health because there needs to be minimal enamel removal. The aftercare is also important and it requires commitment. Before you decide to get veneers you should also set realistic expectations and know that the results will not be the same for everyone.
Risks Of Porcelain Veneers
This procedure comes with possible risks but you should know that they are very rare and minimal. Some of them can be:
- The enamel that is removed is irreversible and can cause sensitivity to the teeth.
- Veneers are easier to break or chip.
- The color matching can be a challenge for the dentists.
- They may need replacing every 15 years due to the normal ear and tear process that can happen even in your natural teeth,
- You should maintain proper oral hygiene to keep your gums and teeth healthy.
How To Decide Which Dental Procedure Is Right For You?
Deciding which procedure between dental implants or porcelain veneers is the right one for you can be challenging. Before choosing the right procedure, we advise you to consider some of the factors written below:
- Consider How Damaged Your Tooth Is
In order to completely replace your badly damaged tooth and enjoy the long-term advantage of avoiding infections or difficulties over time, you should definitely consider getting a dental implant. An implant is a perfect solution for more serious oral issues. On the other hand, veneers work well to fix minor aesthetic dental damage such as chips, stains, and gaps.
- Factor In Any Bite Correction Needs
Every time you lose a tooth, your bite might become misaligned, which affects how you can chew, speak, and smile. By closing the space and strengthening the gums or jawbone to further preserve or realign the teeth, a dental implant can help prevent or lessen misalignment. Veneers can conceal apparent alignment flaws and uneven tooth spacing, but they are unable to address the underlying causes of bite problems.
- Weigh The Longevity Of The Procedures
Veneers are not permanent, even though they can last for many years with proper maintenance. Dental implants are a more permanent solution than porcelain veneers, which are significantly more prone to breakage. A veneer will need to be adjusted or replaced after around ten years, while an implant won’t need any change unless it sustains damage. Even if replacing veneers is quick and simple, you should consider whether you want to deal with ongoing visits and replacement processes.
- Consider What Your Cosmetic Concerns Are
Veneers could be a better choice if your main goals are to improve the appearance of your smile and fix small flaws like chipping or discoloration.
- Consider Which Tooth Needs Replacement
If you have one or more missing teeth and are searching for a long-term solution that closely resembles the appearance and functionality of natural teeth, dental implants are probably a better option.
- Consider Your Budget
Although veneers and implants are not cheap, veneers are typically more economical in the short run. However, because of their endurance and stability, dental implants can end up being a superior long-term option for you and they will cost more.
- Take Care Of Your Oral Health
Dental implants are a good alternative if you are missing teeth since they can help maintain the health and integrity of your jawbone by avoiding bone loss.
- Reversibility
It’s crucial to remember that veneers entail the loss of dental enamel, making them irreversible. However, dental implants can be taken out if needed, although this is not very requested.
Are Dental Implants Cheaper Than Veneers?
Veneers are less expensive than dental implants, but considering that implants last your whole life they are more cost-effective. When the implant is placed and integrated it will not cause any further issues which means that it will not cost you more money. On the other hand, you should consider how frequently veneers need to be replaced based on your age. This being said, including every factor, with time veneers will cost more than dental implants.
Factors Influencing Cost Differences
Some of the factors influencing the cost of dental implants and veneers can be:
- Because there are several materials available the price range of dental implants and veneers will be influenced.
- The price can also be affected by the dentist’s experience and qualifications.
- Costs are influenced by variations in each country’s cost of living.
The Bottom Line: Consult Your Dentist For Professional Advice
Choosing the right treatment for your teeth can be challenging, just like with any other medical procedure. You have to weigh the pros and cons of each operation to decide which is best for you because both have substantial advantages. If functionality is more important to you than just appearance, dental implants may be a better option for you.
Veneers and dental implants both have the potential to improve the way your smile looks. While veneers mainly address aesthetic issues and only need little tooth preparation, dental implants offer a more complete and long-lasting way to replace lost teeth. The choice between these two procedures is based on your specific demands, financial situation, and oral health. To help you make an informed decision consult with a professional dentist. They will create a customized treatment plan that fits both your spending limit and your objectives. Our aim is to give our patients good results by using our cutting-edge facilities and contemporary methods.
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