Dental Implants vs VeneersA smile is a very powerful asset in interpersonal communication. Yet, chipped, discolored, or missing teeth can subconsciously hold you back from expressing your joy. The good news is that you can correct oral issues and enhance your smile using dental implants and veneers. While both methods are relatively effective, they cater to different needs and work differently. Understanding the key differences between the two will help you make an informed decision. At Advanced Center for Oral Surgery, Facial Surgery and Dental Implants, we have years of experience in installing dental implants and veneers. Schedule a consultation with our dentists today to get a recommendation on the most suitable method to unlock your smile. What Are Dental Implants?Dental implants are artificial teeth roots. They are typically screw-like titanium or ceramic posts implanted into the jawbone via surgery. Custom-made replacement teeth are then latched onto the screws to fill the gap. These artificial teeth are as tough as natural teeth and seamlessly perform all teeth functions like chewing and biting. Apart from replacing missing or bad teeth, dental implants also prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can happen when missing teeth. This helps to maintain the dental structure and integrity of the mouth. What are Veneers?Veneers are externally applied teeth coverings that are primarily used to cover imperfections like chips and discoloration. They can also be designed to slightly fill a gap between the teeth. Most veneers are made of porcelain and composite resin. Veneer installation starts with reshaping your existing teeth to achieve a uniform look. The dentist will then take an impression of the teeth and use it to make custom veneers. The veneers are then bonded to the teeth. The whole process can take several weeks, depending on the type of veneer. Differences Between Dental Implants and VeneersDental implants are designed to offer a long-term solution to dental issues, while veneers are mostly an aesthetic solution. Moreover, dental implants are ideal when one has lost a tooth or teeth due to infection or injury. Veneers, on the other hand, improve the appearance of the existing teeth. As such, they cannot work where there are missing teeth. Dental implanting is a major surgical procedure, and the whole process, from the screw installation to the eventual crown installation, can take several months. For this reason, dental implants tend to be more expensive than veneers. On their part, veneers have a less invasive installation process, which generally takes 2-3 visits. In terms of durability, dental implants can last for a lifetime, while veneers have comparatively shorter lifespans, averaging 10-15 years. On the upside, veneers, especially the porcelain types, are more resistant to stains and do not crack or chip easily. Thus, you are assured of a radiantly bright smile for years to come. Get in Touch With Us Today!Our specialists at Advanced Center for Oral Surgery, Facial Surgery and Dental Implants are experts in oral and maxillofacial surgery and are well-equipped to help you attain the smile of your dreams. Give us a call today at (224) 341-5517 to explore the different procedures we offer and start your journey to a perfect and healthy smile. |