Are Veneers the Same as Dental Implants?

With a variety of procedures available in regular dentistry and cosmetic dentistry, it can be easy to become confused about some of the procedures. We often hear about veneers and dental implants, but are veneers the same as dental implants?

Whether you’re considering dental implants or perhaps veneers, you’ll need to understand the differences between the two procedures, and that’s going to be the focus of this article.

So, are veneers the same as dental implants? Read on to learn more about veneers and dental implants, the different types, the benefits and who each procedure is suitable for.

What Are Veneers?

Are veneers the same as dental implants? Veneers come under the umbrella of cosmetic dentistry and are often used to improve a person’s smile by creating an even set of white teeth. In order to improve the appearance of teeth or to correct a problem with an individual tooth, a thin veneer shell is placed over the tooth and cemented into place.

Many people are opting for veneers these days to produce a dazzling white smile, and veneers are extremely popular in the celebrity world. While many of us may envy the bright and perfect smiles of our favourite movie stars, for example, many of those amazing smiles were created with cosmetic dentistry and the fitting of veneers.

In order for veneers to look good and also to feel comfortable for the recipient, they need to be extremely thin. For best results, veneers should be custom-designed to fit each individual tooth.

Different Types of Veneers

Composite Resin Veneers

There are both direct and indirect composite resin veneers. Direct composite veneers are sculpted and shaped directly onto the teeth, whereas indirect composite resin veneers are made outside of the mouth, either on-site in the dental clinic or elsewhere in a dental laboratory. In many instances, the fitting of composite resin veneers can be a same-day process. Indirect composite veneers are stronger than direct veneers and are able to withstand abrasions on a much higher level. Before veneers are fitted, any decay or other issues with the teeth must be addressed first. Teeth are then cleaned to ensure there is no plaque or bacteria beneath the veneers.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are more expensive, but they are also of a higher standard. Whether you need veneers to correct problems with your teeth or you’re hoping to achieve the ultimate smile, porcelain veneers are the best choice. Veneers made from porcelain are not only stronger and more abrasive-resistant than composite veneers, but they also produce a more natural-looking smile. Each veneer is custom-designed to fit each individual tooth. This is achieved by first making impressions of your teeth and then having the porcelain veneers manufactured to exact specifications. When ready, following some prep, the veneers are fitted with a special cement.

Temporary and Clip-on Veneers

Temporary and clip-on veneers are used to demonstrate what permanent veneers will look like before committing to the process. Temporary veneers are also used in the interim between getting fitted for porcelain veneers, and the day the application process takes place.

The Benefits

One of the most obvious benefits of a full mouth of veneers is that of achieving a gorgeous white smile with even, unblemished teeth. However, improving your smile isn’t the only benefit of having veneers fitted.

Veneers can be used to protect a tooth with a large filling. They are also used to fix chipped, cracked and broken teeth, teeth with gaps, uneven teeth, as well as discoloured teeth. Veneers can be fitted to numerous teeth or just a single tooth.

While each application of veneers will improve aesthetics and boost self-confidence, veneers work well to strengthen and protect problems or damaged teeth. They can also resolve thinning tooth enamel issues.

Who Are Veneers Suitable For?

Veneers are suitable for anyone with natural teeth who wishes to enhance their smile. However, in order to look after veneers once they’ve been fitted, people who naturally practice good oral hygiene regularly will be the best candidates.

Veneers are also a good choice for individuals who have teeth that are stained and don’t respond well to teeth whitening treatments. Veneers also work well to correct minor imperfections such as cracked or chipped teeth and uneven or misshapen teeth.

Once you have your veneers, it’s advisable to have regular visits with your dentist to ensure your oral health (and the health of the veneers) is in good shape.

What Are Dental Implants?

If you’ve been wondering if veneers are the same as dental implants, let’s take a closer look at implants, their benefits and who they are most suitable for.

Dental implants are most commonly used to replace missing teeth. First, a titanium screw is inserted into the jawbone to simulate a natural tooth root. Once the bone has had a chance to solidify the titanium implant in the jaw, an abutment is then attached to the screw, which will act as the foundation for the crown. Once a crown has been fashioned, it is permanently affixed to the abutment, creating a brand-new tooth.

Types of Dental Implants

Single Tooth Implants

The single-tooth implant was essentially described above. It involves replacing a single missing tooth with a titanium screw, abutment and crown.

All-on-4^® Implants

Are veneers the same as dental implants, and are all implants the same? The answer is no. This type of dental implant refers to a full-arch fixed dental bridge. The All-on-4^® is an alternative to the single-tooth implant, with the main advantage being a much faster recovery time. If you’re thinking about having dental implants, be sure to first discuss your options with your dentist.

The Benefits

Dental implants are the best method of replacing missing teeth. They serve as an aesthetic to improve your appearance, as well as restore normal chewing functionality and rectify any speech impediments due to a missing tooth or teeth.

It’s also easier to keep your teeth clean and free of debris when all of your teeth are in place. Sometimes, having a missing tooth can change the facial structure. Implants help to correct this as well.

As you can see, the answer to the question, “Are veneers the same as dental implants?” is quite clear.

Who Are Dental Implants Suitable For?

Ideal candidates for teeth implants are anyone with one or more missing teeth. It’s also necessary to have a fully grown and developed jawbone for the results to be truly effective. There also needs to be no conditions present that impede bone growth. If gum disease is present, this will first need to be resolved before implants can be considered.

For dental implants, make an appointment with Dr Michael Curtis at Admire Dentistry.

Are Veneers And Dental Implants the Same?

Are veneers the same as dental implants? No, the two are quite different procedures. However, both procedures improve aesthetics, correct dental imperfections, boost a person’s self-confidence, improve oral health and more.

Dental implants and veneers are both important procedures in cosmetic and restorative dentistry.

Get Veneers or Dental Implants at Admire Dentistry

Now that the question, ‘Are veneers the same as dental implants’ has been answered, you can make an appointment with Dr Michael Curtis at Admire Dentistry to discuss your treatment options. Get in touch with us today and have all of your questions or concerns answered by our expert technicians and staff.