Veneers vs Dentures
There are quite distinct differences between veneers and dentures. In this article, we will take a look at these differences so you can make the proper decision for your needs.
Veneers
Veneers are thin layers of materials that are spread over your front teeth to improve their looks and protect them from damage. The materials can be porcelain or resin composite. This procedure is permanent, although some people may require refills if the veneers wear out.
Veneers bond with your teeth and hide any discoloration or crookedness that they may have.
There are two main types of veneers, indirect and direct veneers. For indirect veneers, the dentist measures your teeth and then creates them in a dental laboratory for later installation. Direct veneers are applied right onto the surface of your teeth.
Indirect veneers usually last longer than direct veneers. The durability of veneers mostly depends on how well you maintain them. Habits such as nail-biting risk them becoming damaged.
In the overall scheme, veneers last for decades if well maintained. However, porcelain veneers last longer than resin types.
Dentures
Dentures, on the other hand, are removable replacements for removed or missing teeth. They can be made out of plastic or metal, and they are supported by the surrounding tissue, such as gums.
Dentures can be full or partial. Full dentures replace the whole set of teeth in the upper or lower jaws or even both. Partial dentures replace a single or a few teeth that may be crooked or missing.
They are usually customized to fit the space between your teeth, and they can be adjusted by the dentist to ensure they fit correctly.
For full dentures, you can get either conventional or immediate dentures. With the former, your teeth will be removed, and then you will have to wait for a few months for your gum and tissues to heal before they are implanted.
With immediate full dentures, they will be installed as soon as the rest of the teeth are removed. There will be regular visits to your dentist for check-ups and readjustments for the next several months.
Differences between veneers and dentures
The main difference between the two lies in how they are installed. Veneers are thin film-like layers that stick to your existing teeth for support, while dentures mostly replace missing teeth.
However, dentures can be added on top of your teeth by being attached to them using a clasp.
Another significant difference between the two is their permanence. Veneers cannot be changed once they are set. Their color remains unchanged all through.
Dentures are removable and can be replaced if you would like to change them.
Veneers tend to last longer than dentures, though. Porcelain veneers are strong, and they will last for decades, or even your whole life, provided you maintain them well. Dentures may require replacement after several years.
When it comes to the implant procedure, veneers are easier to install than dentures. Dentures may require you to wait for weeks or months before having them installed.
The upside to all this is that with dentures, you will not experience tooth sensitivity, and you can eat any foods with them. Veneers are more likely to give you sensitivity problems because of their attachment to your teeth.
Which one is better?
The choice on whether to get veneers or dentures depends on the problems your teeth have, your dentist’s advice, and your preference.
For people with chipped teeth, minor gaps, or broken teeth, a veneer may be a preferable choice. The same goes for those with stained teeth. The gaps will be filled, and the stained teeth covered to give them better looks.
However, if you have too many teeth that are damaged, getting dentures may be better for you. For full dentures, the rest of the teeth will have to be removed before the implants are installed.
Pros and cons of veneers
Pros
- They replace damaged enamel
- They whiten discolored teeth
- Can fix minor cosmetic issues
Cons
- They are irreversible
- Expensive
- They increase your tooth sensitivity
Pros and cons of dentures
Pros
- Can be replaced
- Can offer support to weakening jaw
- They look and feel natural
- They don’t cause tooth sensitivity
Cons
- Not a permanent solution
- They may require subtle adjustments every once in a while
Conclusion
Although the final decision on whether to get a veneer or denture lies with you, it is essential to consult a dentist first. He/she will give you more detailed advice on which of the two options best suits your dental problems.
They will also explain further on other varying factors such as durability and permanence. Therefore, take some time to sit down with a dentist and gain refined information about the two options.