Implants or Veneers: Two Solutions For a Multitude of Problems

Posted by studiocitydental on September 25th, 2015

Cosmetic dentistry is more than mere aesthetics. There are legitimate health reasons to visit a cosmetic dentist. Often the line between “restorative” and “cosmetic” gets a little blurry.

Two dental solutions commonly associated with cosmetic dentistry are dental implants and veneers. Each have their appearance-based benefits, but they also serve functions for maintaining overall oral health.

It may be difficult to compare them – they are actually two very different things. Costs can vary widely, and are affected by how many teeth require treatment. Your dental plan, deductible, and whether the procedure is considered cosmetic or restorative dentistry may also affect the cost. But these solutions also complement each other well, so it’s important to understand what they do for your teeth.

For tooth loss,dental implants are the solution of choice. When you lose a tooth for whatever reason, your jawbone collapses inward and gradually shrivels away. The bone loss is often painless and you might not even know it is occurring, but it will affect your looks and the function of your teeth.

Implants are man-made roots that substitute for your own tooth roots to solve the problem. The implants usually last 25 years or more and are very stable and strong. They are inserted into and directly attached to the bone in the jaw.

Occasionally one may need to be tightened or replaced. A dental implant can replace one or more missing teeth without affecting other teeth, restore your smile, chewing ability, speech and digestion, and support a bridge or denture.

Veneers, on the other hand, are more commonly used for cosmetic reasons, but can also cover chips or cracks, and can even out the tooth line, which will benefit an implant and help it last even longer.

The best dental veneers are usually made of porcelain. They are applied to the surface of your teeth to cover chips, breaks, stains or gaps. They can be applied to both top and bottom teeth and mimic the look of your natural teeth. If you only need one or two veneers, they can usually be color-matched to your own teeth.

Veneers don’t usually last as long as implants, typically 10 years or more, and may need to be replaced. If not bonded correctly, they may shift, receding from the gum line. Veneers that shift may open the door for problems such as tooth decay.

Discuss your dental needs with aStudio City cosmetic dentist, one who is experienced with both implants and veneers. Check with your insurance plan to determine what coverage you have. As always, once you’ve improved your smile, practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing every day, and see your dentist regularly for preventive care.

About the Company:

Dr. Kouyoumdjian received his Doctoral of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California where he focused on esthetic dentistry. He has received several professional awards and regularly attends training sessions to stay up-to-date on the latest cosmetic dentistry. Several other services are also available, including teeth whitening and general dentistry. The whole staff at Studio City Dental Centerstrives to make patients comfortable and have a pleasant experience.