Dental imperfections can affect your oral health, but they also harm your self-image. Fortunately, people unhappy with their smiles have many options to choose from when it comes to restoration. Dental implants and veneers are two common treatments, each of which offers distinct benefits to patients.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth make eating and talking difficult. They also contribute to bone loss in the jaw and change a person’s facial structure over time if left unaddressed. Dental implants fill in gaps in teeth, thereby improving your smile and preventing the ill-effects of missing teeth.

The metal implant is placed directly into the patient’s jaw bone, which stimulates the growth of healthy tissue. An abutment is placed on top of the metal rod, onto which an artificial tooth is placed. In cases where jaw bone tissue is lacking, a bone graft may need to be performed to create a stable foundation for the implant. Artificial teeth are cared for the same as natural teeth, which means less maintenance is required when compared to dentures and partials.

Veneers

While implants remedy missing teeth, veneers correct various dental imperfections. This includes cracks, chips, crooked teeth, staining, and gaps. Veneers are thin shells — often made of porcelain — that are fitted over teeth to conceal any cosmetic issues. This treatment is less intensive than implants since shells are attached to natural teeth.

However, the dentist will need to shave down some of the existing tooth enamel to ensure the veneers fit correctly. They also lightly etch the natural teeth so the dental adhesive forms a tight bond. While most people are candidates for veneers, proper dental hygiene is essential before and after the procedure.

Do you have questions about whether you’re an ideal candidate for either of the above procedures? If so, David A. Dauphin, DMD is happy to provide answers to patients in Dothan, AL. This family dentistry offers a wide range of cosmetic treatments, including at-home teeth whitening kits that combine the convenience of store-bought brands with the effectiveness of in-office whitening. Learn more about their cosmetic treatments online, or call (334) 794-3727 to schedule an appointment today.