What is the Difference between Dental Veneers & Dental Implants?

Dental Veneers and Dental Implants both can give patients a beautiful white smile. Deciding what restorative or cosmetic option works best for you depends on the condition of your teeth. Our staff at Cupertino Oral & Facial Surgery in Cupertino provides cosmetic and restorative consultations to all our patients to take a detailed look at your mouth and determine a customized treatment plan that works for you. We listen to your goals and look at all options to give you the opportunity to choose the best one.
So, what is the difference between the two? Typically, Dental Veneers and Dental Implants are used for different reasons. This all depends on how much damage a patient has to their teeth.

‍What are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are porcelain shells that are bonded to teeth. Veneers match the shade and color of your natural teeth providing a bright white smile. Typically veneers are used for patients that have chipped, stained, uneven, or spaces between teeth. During the procedure a special cement is applied to the teeth, and the veneer is then placed on the tooth. An ultraviolet light is then used to cure and harden the veneer. Veneers are made out of durable porcelain and are permanent. They can last any where between 10-15 years if cared for properly. Dental veneers can be customized to best fit your teeth and preserve as much of your existing tooth as possible giving patients a long-lasting smile.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental Implants are the leading restorative solution for many patients and one of the most common procedures done today. Implants are permanent and reliable giving patients the feeling that they have natural teeth. Implants are used for patients that have lost a tooth or teeth, have suffered from periodontal disease, or an injury. Dental implants take multiple appointments across a few months to complete.

Implants last upwards of 25 years or a lifetime if taken care for properly. They provide many benefits to patients, and are comfortable in the mouth. Implants allow patients to speak, eat, and function just like they would with natural teeth.

As part of our evaluation process, Dr. Brian C. Lee we will determine if the patient has enough bone present in the jaw to support the implants. If needed, bone grafting can be done to provide the additional support. During the implant procedure metal posts are placed in the jaw, and these act similar to artificial tooth roots. These posts provide the required support needed for the implants. Once the healing process is complete, an abutment or connector is secured on top of the implants. This allows the crown to be secured on top of the implant.

Crowns are custom made to match the color, size, and shape of your teeth. Temporary crowns are used while the patient waits for the permanent crown to be placed. Practicing good oral hygiene habits and visiting our office regularly will help to keep your implants looking and feeling great.

Still Not Sure? Contact Our Cosmetic surgeons in Cupertino

‍Choosing the best option is important, and our team at Cupertino Oral & Facial Surgery is here to help give you all of the options available to achieve that bright white smile. We welcome all patients, and strive to always provide quality service our patients can count on.

If you are interested in finding out more about Dental Veneers or are looking to get dental implants in Cupertino, please contact our surgeons to schedule your consultation.