Choosing between veneers and dentures is an important dental decision. Many people get veneers or dentures to improve the look and function of their smile. But which is the better choice? There are pros and cons to both options that need careful consideration. This article will compare veneers vs dentures, looking at cost, procedure, maintenance, durability, and aesthetic results to help you decide which may be better for your unique situation.
What are veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front of teeth. Veneers are custom-made to match the shape, color, and size of your natural teeth.
Veneers are used to:
- Improve the color of stained or discolored teeth that cannot be improved with whitening treatments
- Close small gaps between teeth
- Repair chips or cracks in teeth
- Correct crooked or misshapen teeth
- Replace old dental work like crowns or fillings
Veneers provide an excellent cosmetic solution for correcting mild alignment issues, closing small gaps, or improving tooth color and smile aesthetics. They are one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments today.
Veneer Procedure
Getting veneers involves a multi-step process:
- Consultation – The dentist will examine your teeth, take x-rays, and discuss goals for your new smile.
- Teeth preparation – The surface of the teeth will be lightly buffed to allow for the thin veneer shells. Local anesthesia is usually used to numb the teeth for this preparation step.
- Impressions – An impression will be taken of the prepared teeth. These models are sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the custom-made veneers.
- Temporary veneers – A temporary set may be placed on the teeth while you wait for the permanent veneers to be made, which takes around 2-3 weeks.
- Bonding appointment – At this appointment the veneers are tried on to ensure proper color and fit before they are bonded onto the teeth with a strong dental adhesive.
- Follow-up visit – A follow-up is usually recommended within 2 weeks to check that you are adjusting to the veneers.
The entire process typically takes 3-4 visits over a few weeks. Getting veneers is usually not painful, but some sensitivity or discomfort is normal when the teeth are being prepared and the veneers placed. Local anesthesia helps minimize any sensations.
What are dentures?
Dentures are removable sets of artificial teeth designed to replace missing natural teeth. Complete dentures replace all teeth in an arch, while partial dentures fill in gaps where some natural teeth remain.
Dentures may be needed when:
- All natural teeth have been lost in an arch
- Severe gum disease has caused significant tooth loss
- Teeth have been damaged beyond repair due to decay, trauma, etc.
- Financial reasons prevent other tooth replacement options
Dentures restore your smile and ability to properly chew and speak. They are made of acrylic resin formed around a metal framework to create the base that supports the artificial teeth. The teeth are made from plastic, porcelain, or a combination. Partial dentures use metal clasps to securely fit around remaining natural teeth.
Denture Procedure
The denture creation process involves:
- Impressions – Impressions are taken of the gums and any remaining teeth. These anatomical models are used to design the custom dentures.
- Try-ins – The dentist will fit trial dentures in wax to ensure proper shape, color, fit and bite alignment before the final dentures are fabricated.
- Delivery – Once the final dentures are ready (a process taking around 3-6 weeks), they are placed and adjusted as needed to comfortably fit your mouth.
- Adjustments – Several follow-up adjustments are usually needed as you get used to the feel and function of the new dentures over the first few months of wear.
Getting dentures is a process that takes many appointments over an extended period. Since all teeth are removed with full dentures, the process can be uncomfortable. Your gums and supporting bone also need time to heal properly before dentures can be placed.
Cost Comparison
| Treatment | Cost per Tooth |
|---|---|
| Veneers | $925 – $2,500+ per veneer |
| Dentures | $300 – $500 per tooth |
Veneers are more expensive on a per tooth basis since they involve highly customized fabrication. However, patients require fewer veneers than they would individual crowns or implants. Partial dentures cost less than complete dentures. Insurance policies may cover more of the cost for dentures vs. veneers since they are considered a functional restoration rather than only cosmetic.
Durability
With proper oral care, veneers and dentures can both last many years, but veneers tend to be the more durable long-term solution.
Veneers:
Last 10-15 years or longer
Bonds to natural teeth for added strength
Not damaged by normal chewing/biting forces
Porcelain is stain- and chip-resistant
Dentures:
Last 5-7 years on average
More prone to staining, chipping and wearing down over time
Can be loosened and damaged by strong biting forces
Require re-lining or replacing over time
Veneers do not typically need replacement provided the bonding remains intact and they are properly maintained. Dentures are more likely to require repairs or replacement due to wear from chewing forces. However, veneers made of thinner, weaker porcelain may be more prone to fracture if the bite is not properly balanced.
Maintenance
Caring for veneers and dentures requires diligent oral hygiene and some adjustments:
Veneer Care:
– Brush 2x daily with non-abrasive toothpaste
– Clean between teeth
– See the dentist regularly
– Avoid biting hard objects
– Repair small chips promptly
Denture Care:
– Remove and brush dentures daily
– Soak dentures in cleaner as needed
– Brush gums and tongue when dentures are out
– Avoid harsh cleansers or abrasive brushes
– Use denture adhesives to help stabilize fit
– See the dentist regularly to adjust fit
Veneers need the same oral hygiene as natural teeth. Dentures take more effort since they must be removed and cleaned daily. Proper denture cleaning and maintenance is essential for oral health and preventing bad odors.
Appearance
Veneers and dentures can both restore a beautiful, full smile. However, veneers tend to provide a more natural, aesthetic result.
Veneers pros:
– Look and feel just like natural teeth
– Custom shade matched to surrounding teeth
– Follow the contours of your natural tooth shape
– Resist staining better than other restorations
Dentures pros:
– Can replace a full smile effectively
– Available in many tooth shades
– Artificial teeth set into pink resin matches gums
– Can look quite natural from speaking distance
But dentures may look artificial on close inspection or when smiling broadly. The acrylic base can also pick up more stains from foods, drinks and smoking. The outline of the pink resin may also be visible along the gumline. Veneers offer the most seamless, realistic aesthetic blend.
Comfort and Function
Veneers and dentures enhance comfort and function in different ways.
Veneers advantages:
– Feel just like natural teeth
– Not irritating to gums or tongue
– Allow normal chewing and biting forces
– Don’t require adhesives
– Stay firmly bonded in place
Dentures advantages:
– Can replace all missing teeth in an arch
– Allow normal chewing and speech
– Pink resin base fits contours of gums
– Even pressure on gums aids bone retention
– Can be easily removed for cleaning
Dentures take more getting used to due to their removable nature. They can rub or feel loose until adjusted properly. Adhesives help stabilize the fit. Veneers function like permanent, natural teeth. But veneers may not be suited for people with extensive tooth loss that requires a full fixed bridge or arch of false teeth.
Which is Better for You?
Choosing between veneers and dentures depends on several factors:
Veneers may be better if you:
– Only need minor tooth shape or color changes
– Have healthy natural teeth to support veneers
– Want the most natural looking, cosmetic solution
– Seek a durable restoration
Dentures may be better if you:
– Are missing multiple or all teeth in an arch
– Have experienced advanced gum disease
– Need a budget-friendly tooth replacement option
– Want an easily removable tooth replacement
Consult your dentist to decide if veneers or dentures are the right choice based on your specific dental needs and cosmetic goals. Advanced procedures like dental implants may also be considered if you have extensive tooth loss.
Conclusion
Veneers and dentures both effectively improve the appearance and function of your smile. Veneers provide a conservative option for minor alignment or aesthetic issues, while dentures restore the full smile when significant tooth loss has occurred. Compare the differences in cost, longevity, procedure, comfort, and aesthetics for these two solutions. Although veneers offer a more natural result, dentures may be the only suitable option when many or all teeth are missing. Discuss your needs with your dentist to determine if veneers or dentures are the better choice for your smile. With good oral care and routine dental visits, both can restore an attractive, healthy smile for many years.