Dental implants vs. veneers: what’s the difference?
Discover the key differences between dental implants and veneers to choose the best option for your smile.
Dental implants and veneers are two procedures that help improve and restore a smile. Implants replace missing or severely damaged or decayed teeth, while veneers address minor damage or discoloration. This key distinction makes them suitable for different patients and causes the procedures to vary in cost, complexity, maintenance, and more.
This article explores the differences between dental implants and veneers in more detail. ClearChoice Dental Implant Centers do not offer veneers. However, if you have more questions or need help deciding if dental implants are right for you, schedule a consultation with ClearChoice today.
How dental implants work
Dental implants are small titanium screws attached to the jawbone, serving as artificial tooth roots to replace missing teeth. These fuse to the jawbone over several months, creating a strong base to support a custom-shaped tooth cap or crown. The implant crown mimics the look, feel, and function of natural teeth.
How veneers work
Veneers are thin, custom-made porcelain or composite resin shells that slide over your teeth to obscure minor damage or discoloration on the front surface. The dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the target tooth to create room for the veneer, then takes impressions or scans to custom-make a veneer that preserves the tooth’s shape, size, and color for a natural appearance. The dentist then places the veneer over the tooth when ready and bonds it with strong dental adhesives.
What is the main difference between dental implants and veneers?
Dental implants and veneers differ primarily in their purpose. Implants replace missing teeth caused by injury, infection, or severe decay or damage. Veneers are mainly a cosmetic treatment for healthy teeth. They help to cover discoloration or minor damage on teeth that are still healthy and structurally intact.
Other key differences between dental implants and veneers
The distinct purpose of each procedure results in several key differences between them:
Cost
Implants tend to cost much more upfront than veneers because they involve the replacement of a whole tooth, which requires a surgical procedure and will need more dental visits.
Longevity
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. The titanium used in implants is biocompatible, resists corrosion and caries, and is very physically strong. The crown or cap may need replacement but can last long with care.
Veneers last about 5 to 10 years on average. Just like crowns on dental implants, they can be replaced if needed as long as the tooth itself is still intact.
Maintenance
A standard oral hygiene routine is generally enough for dental implants. That includes brushing two to three times daily, flossing and rinsing once daily, and attending routine dental visits.
Veneers also require good oral health habits. However, unlike a dental implant made of artificial components, the underlying tooth can still decay, so extra vigilance is essential. Furthermore, people with veneers must take care not to damage them through excessive biting forces, teeth grinding, or physical trauma (such as from contact sports).
Eligibility
Patients can be eligible for dental implants if they have missing teeth or if existing teeth are damaged or decayed beyond repair. On the other hand, patients are generally eligible for veneers if they have minor damage or discoloration on their front teeth. They won’t work for more severe damage or decay, instead mostly serving a cosmetic purpose.
Veneers vs. implants: which is right for me?
Here are some factors to consider when deciding between dental implants and veneers:
Missing teeth: Dental implants are the better choice for missing teeth since veneers only correct cosmetic issues on healthy teeth, whereas implants replace the whole tooth.
Cosmetics: Veneers may be the better option for minor discoloration or damage.
Longevity: Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. The crown or cap may need replacement but can last long with good care. The same is true for veneers.
Procedure complexity: Implants involve a more invasive procedure and multiple visits over several months of healing and osseointegration. Veneers take as little as two visits and are more straightforward, with minimal healing needed.
Budget: Veneers cost less than implants, although dental providers may offer financing options for implants.
ClearChoice Dental Implants® offers financing options for dental implant treatment
Dental implants and veneers can each improve your smile, but their purpose differs. Veneers correct minor damage or discoloration on otherwise healthy teeth. Conversely, dental implants may work best if teeth are missing, damaged, or decayed beyond repair. ClearChoice Dental Implant Centers work with third-party financing vendors that can make it easier to fit implants into your budget. Visit your local ClearChoice Dental Implant Center to get started.
Dental implants vs. veneers FAQs
What happens to your real teeth under veneers?
The dentist removes a small amount of enamel from the real teeth so the veneers can fit properly. This cannot be reversed. Once the veneer is placed, the tooth remains as usual, with the veneer protecting against minor damage and discoloration. However, the tooth can decay further without proper oral hygiene and could still experience damage from physical trauma.
Can I get veneers with decayed teeth?
No, you can’t get veneers with any tooth decay. However, the dentist can treat minor to moderate tooth decay, such as a cavity, with a filling before placing a veneer. Severely decayed teeth may not be salvageable, possibly requiring extraction and replacement with an implant.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have high success rates, often 95% or more in healthy patients, thanks to modern dental technology and techniques.