Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Dental implants and veneers address very different dental problems. One replaces a missing tooth. The other improves the appearance of a tooth that is still present. These treatments are often compared, but they are used in very different clinical situations.
Table of Contents
What’s The Difference Between a Dental Implant and Veneers?
If a tooth is missing or cannot be saved, an implant restores both function and appearance by replacing the entire tooth structure. If a tooth is discolored, worn, or misshapen, a veneer improves how it looks.
Dental Implants: A Solution for Missing Teeth
Dental implants replace teeth that have been lost due to decay, trauma, or disease. A titanium (or zirconia) post is surgically positioned in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. After a healing period (typically around 3 months), a custom-made abutment and crown are screwed into the implant body to restore chewing function and a natural appearance similar to natural teeth.
Dental implants are recommended when one or more teeth are missing and long-term oral health is a priority. By integrating with the jawbone, implants help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of bone loss. In some cases, bone grafting may be needed before placement to provide adequate support.
Dental Veneers: Enhancing the Appearance of Natural Teeth
Dental veneers are thin restorations placed on the front surface of teeth. They are used to correct issues such as discoloration, worn enamel, minor chips, uneven edges, or spacing irregularities.
Veneers are appropriate when the underlying tooth structure is healthy and the concern is appearance rather than function. Veneers do not replace teeth, restore roots, or prevent bone loss, and they are not used in cases where a tooth is missing or severely damaged. The natural tooth structure under the veneer may still get decay/cavities; a dental implant cannot get decay.
Because dental implants and veneers address different problems, a clinical evaluation is required to determine which treatment is appropriate.
Schedule a Dental Consultation in Mesa, AZ
If you are considering tooth replacement options or want to improve the appearance of your teeth, a personalized dental evaluation is the next step
If you are in the Phoenix East Valley, book an appointment at our dental office in Mesa, AZ. Call (480) 664-1438 or visit us at 2500 South Power Road, Suite 102, Mesa, AZ.
FAQs
Are implants better than veneers?
Dental implants and veneers are used for different purposes, so one is not considered better than the other. Implants are used to replace missing or non-restorable teeth, while veneers are used to improve the appearance of teeth that are still present and structurally sound.
What are some pros and cons of getting dental implants over veneers?
Dental implants and veneers are not used in the same situations. Implants replace missing or non-restorable teeth and restore function, while veneers are cosmetic restorations placed on existing teeth. Because they address different dental problems, one is not chosen over the other.
Can you get a full set of dental implants?
Yes, a full set of dental implants can be used to replace all missing teeth. This is typically done using multiple implants to support a full-arch restoration rather than placing an implant for every individual tooth.