Dental Implants and Veneers Explained
If you’re looking into replacing or repairing your teeth, you may have heard of both implants and veneers. But what are they, and which do you need?
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are simulated roots used to secure replacements for any number of missing teeth. Implants can make existing bridges or dentures more comfortable, as well.
Missing teeth aren’t simply a cosmetic concern, either. The roots of teeth stimulate bone renewal. This means that your jaw reacts to missing teeth by shriveling inward on itself, making it difficult to talk and eat normally.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are installed similarly to crowns, applied to both top and bottom teeth, and mimic the appearance of natural teeth. They are like thin shells made of ceramic materials that cover your existing teeth.
Dental veneers are used to cover the appearance of chips, breaks, stains or gaps in your teeth. If staining is your only concern, you can also consider getting professional teeth whitening at the dentist.
What is the Cost of Cosmetic Dentistry?
The cost of cosmetic dentistry varies depending on how severe your problems are and whether your insurance will cover any of the costs. Increasingly, some insurance companies are covering procedures formerly considered purely optional and cosmetic. Generally veneers cost between $250 and $1,500 per tooth. Implant costs will depend on how many teeth need to be replaced, whether bone grafting is required and in what geographic area the procedure is being performed (larger cities tend to be more expensive).
If cosmetic dentistry costs are a concern, you can do a little research to find an affordable dentist. But make sure you’re using a local dentist well qualified to perform the procedure, and not going to any extreme lengths to save a little money.
