The Dental Implants vs Veneers Guide: Costs & Differences

Choosing between dental implants vs veneers can be a big decision if you’re looking to upgrade your smile. Each option has its perks and downsides, which we’ll cover in detail. We’ll also break down the cost differences to help you figure out which one fits your budget and dental needs best. This article will give you a clear comparison to help you decide which option is right for you.

If you live in Utah and want dental implants, we can help you! We have offices in Salt Lake City and South Jordan which are conveniently located for you. Click the buttons below to learn more about our dental implant services in each location or give us a call!

What Are Veneers? 

Veneers are thin covers that fit over the front of your teeth, giving them a new, improved look. They’re made from porcelain or composite resin, and they’re super popular for fixing a range of dental issues. Think of them as a quick cosmetic fix for chipped, stained, or slightly misaligned teeth. The process is pretty straightforward: your dentist will shape your natural teeth a bit to make room for the veneers, then bond them on. This can completely transform your smile without the need for more invasive procedures. 

Are Veneers Implants? 

No, veneers are not implants. As mentioned above, veneers are thin shells that cover only the front surface of your teeth, primarily for cosmetic improvements. They’re bonded to the existing tooth structure and don’t replace the entire tooth. 

On the other hand, dental implants are used to replace the entire tooth. An implant involves a surgical procedure where a metal post (usually titanium) is placed into the jawbone, serving as a root for the new tooth. An artificial tooth (crown) is then attached to this post, providing a strong and durable tooth replacement that functions like a natural tooth. So, while veneers primarily address cosmetic concerns, dental implants are used for both cosmetic and functional tooth replacement. 

When to Consider Veneers? 

If you’re thinking about getting veneers, they’re a great choice if you want to make some cosmetic changes to your smile without going through major dental work. They’re perfect for covering up minor imperfections and giving you a brighter, more even smile. 

Veneers are also a good option if you’re looking for a long-lasting solution. They typically last between 7 to 15 years, depending on the material and how well you take care of them. Just keep in mind, veneers work best on teeth that are healthy overall—so if you have issues like severe decay or gum disease, you might need to address those before getting veneers. If you’re all about getting that picture-perfect smile with minimal downtime, veneers could be just the ticket. 

When Are Dental Implants Better? 

Dental implants are often the better choice when you need a more comprehensive solution for missing or severely damaged teeth. Here’s when considering dental implants might be the right move: 

1. Missing Teeth: If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants provide a stable, long-term replacement that looks and functions just like your natural teeth. Unlike dentures or bridges, they don’t require support from adjacent teeth. 
2. Bone and Gum Health: Implants can help preserve the jawbone and prevent bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing, maintaining the structure of your face and jaw. 
3. Durability: Implants are designed to be durable and can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a good investment. 
4. Daily Convenience: They allow you to eat, speak, and maintain your oral hygiene just as you would with your natural teeth. There’s no need for special cleaners, and they don’t require any adhesives.
5. Overall Oral Health: Because they don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support, implants do not put additional strain on other teeth, which can be beneficial for your long-term dental health.

Cost Comparison for Dental Implants vs Veneers 

When it comes to cost, veneers and dental implants differ significantly due to the complexity of the procedures and the materials used. Veneers are generally less expensive than dental implants. The price of veneers can vary depending on the material—porcelain veneers are typically more expensive than composite resin veneers but offer a more durable and natural-looking result. On average, you might spend anywhere from $500 to $2,500 per tooth for veneers. 

Dental implants, on the other hand, involve a more invasive and technologically advanced procedure, including surgery for implant placement and additional costs for the abutment and crown. This makes them a pricier option, with the total cost per tooth ranging from $1,500 to $6,000 or more. The higher cost reflects the permanence and the functional benefits they offer, as well as the overall impact on oral health. While the initial investment in dental implants is higher, they can be more cost-effective in the long run, given their durability and the lack of need for replacement. Therefore, when considering the costs, it’s also important to factor in the long-term maintenance and potential future expenses. 

Pros and Cons of Both 

Veneers

• Pros: 
• Less invasive procedure. 
• Cost-effective for cosmetic improvements. 
• Quick transformation of the smile. 
• Stain-resistant, especially porcelain veneers. 
• No need for surgery. 
• Cons: 
• Not a solution for missing teeth. 
• Less durable than implants; require replacement every 10-15 years. 
• Cannot correct severe dental issues. 
• Permanent alteration of natural teeth (usually). 

Dental Implants

• Pros: 
• Replace entire missing teeth, from root to crown. 
• Prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure. 
• Offer durability and can last a lifetime with proper care. 
• Function like natural teeth, improving speech and eating. 
• Do not require alteration of adjacent healthy teeth. 
• Cons: 
• More expensive than veneers. 
• Surgical procedure required, with longer recovery time. 
• Not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain health issues or insufficient jawbone. 
• Higher upfront cost and investment of time.

The Dental Implants vs Veneers Guide Conclusion 

If you’re looking to spruce up your smile with some cosmetic enhancements, veneers might be just what you need. They’re ideal for covering up minor imperfections quickly and effectively. However, if you’re dealing with missing or extensively damaged teeth, dental implants are likely the better solution. They not only replace teeth but also help maintain your jawbone and overall facial structure. 

Here at Utah Periodontal Specialists, while we don’t offer veneers, we are experts in dental implants. Should you decide that implants are the best path for your dental health, we’re here to help. You can schedule an appointment with us at our South Jordan or Salt Lake City locations.