Veneers vs. Dental Implants: Which is Right for Your Smile?

Are you considering veneers or dental implants to upgrade your smile? Both are excellent options for restoring teeth that are damaged, decayed, discoloured or missing altogether. However, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two procedures.

At Dental On Falconer, our cosmetic dentists are highly experienced in veneers, implants and more. We’ll work closely with you to determine which solution best fits your specific needs and goals.

Here’s a comparison of veneers and implants to help you make an informed decision.

What Are Veneers and How Do They Help Me?

Veneers are ultra-thin shells made of durable dental porcelain that are bonded to the front surfaces of your natural teeth. They essentially create a new outer tooth surface that is bright white and flawlessly shaped.

Veneers can conceal a multitude of cosmetic imperfections, like

• Chipped, cracked or worn teeth
• Stubborn stains and discoloration
• Misshapen or misaligned teeth
• Gaps between teeth

How Do Dental Implants Differ?

A dental implant is a complete tooth replacement from the root up. It consists of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, which then fuses with the bone over several months. Once healed, the implant is topped with a lifelike dental crown.

Implants can replace any number of missing teeth, from a single implant to restore one missing tooth to an implant-supported bridge to replace multiple missing teeth. We also offer implant overdentures to provide sturdy anchors for full dentures.

Because implants are inserted directly into the jawbone, they provide unmatched stability, durability, and function, which is the next best thing to your natural teeth.

Examining the Key Differences Between Veneers and Implants

• Treatment Timeframe – Veneers usually require just 2-3 visits over a couple of weeks once your teeth are prepared. Implants are a much longer process – the surgery, healing period and placing the restoration take six-plus months.
• Function – Veneers only restore the visible parts of your teeth for an improved appearance. Implants replace the entire tooth structure from the root up, restoring full chewing function.
• Lifespan – With proper care, veneers generally last 10-15 years before needing replacement. Dental implants can potentially last a lifetime with good oral hygiene habits.
• Preparation – Getting veneers requires removing a thin layer of enamel. Implants involve surgically placing the post into the jawbone.
• Cost – Veneers tend to be more affordable upfront than the multi-step implant process. However, implants are a one-and-done lifetime investment.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Both veneers and implants have their advantages depending on your specific dental needs and goals. Veneers are ideal if you simply want to make over cosmetically imperfect teeth, while implants are better suited for replacing missing teeth.

If you have stained, cracked or slightly misaligned teeth but a generally healthy mouth, veneers can transform your smile with minimal tooth preparation. But if you’re missing teeth due to injury, decay or gum disease, dental implants provide replacements that look and function like your natural teeth.