Dentures vs Veneers vs Implants: What Is the Difference & Which One Can Best Revive a Smile?

Thankfully, in this day and age, we have the technology to offer a variety of cosmetic dental procedures that can restore picture perfect smiles. And thanks to most dental insurance plans, it’s become easier to afford veneers or dentures. Out of every medical issue that exists, missing a tooth might seem like an insignificant problem.

But, to the thousands of people who have lost teeth due to accidents, health problems, or poor oral hygiene, a missing tooth–or a mouth full of missing teeth–is a big deal. If you feel less than 100% confident about your smile–or worry that missing teeth hinder your ability to make a good first impression–I’m so glad you landed on this post. In this post, I’m sharing info on three common cosmetic dental solutions–dentures, veneers, and dental implants–that can easily give you the power to take back your smile.

What option is best for you? Keep reading to find out…

All About Dentures

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are custom-made teeth replacements that can be removed and put back into your mouth. They are custom made for every patient so that they fit your mouth and look like natural teeth. Dentures can either be full or partial, meaning they can either replace all teeth on either the top or bottom gum line, or just a few that are missing.

What Are Dentures Made Of?

Years ago, dentures were made out of porcelain or plastic. It’s possible that a dentist might still use these materials to create dentures, but nowadays, it’s unlikely. Now instead of porcelain or plastic, dentists typically make dentures out of a hard resin material.

How Much Do Dentures Cost?

As for price, the Healthcare Blue Book, which provides estimates of fair, median pricing for health services, says a set of complete dentures should cost approximately $1,300. Partial dentures would, of course, cost less, depending on how many teeth you need replaced.

Certainly, they are slightly expensive, but here’s the good news…

If your dentures are medically necessary, it’s possible that your dentures could be fully covered by dental insurance.

However, if your dental insurance sets an annual savings cap, you’ll likely have to pay a portion of the cost. Be sure to have your dentist run your insurance benefits before you agree to dentures. Doing this will enable you to know what your costs will be before you make the investment

All About Veneers

What Are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells of ceramic or a composite resin material that a dentist bonds to a person’s front of teeth. Their job is to mask discoloration, brighten teeth, and improve a person’s smile. They are a great cosmetic option for someone who is only in need of repairing their front teeth. Even better, having veneers placed on your front teeth requires no anesthesia and can be done quickly in just one appointment.

What Are Veneers Made Of?

As mentioned above, veneers are thin shells of ceramic (porcelain) or a composite material. These materials are safe and durable.

How Much Do Veneers Cost?

According to Angie’s List Healthcare Bluebook, veneers typically cost between $500 and $1900 per tooth. It all depends on what materials your dentist uses to create the veneers. Unfortunately, most dental insurance companies will not cover veneers unless they are being used to restore a decayed or broken tooth. However, many dental offices offer payment plans for these types of procedures, which makes them affordable.

All About Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gum line. This post acts as a tooth root and enables your dentist to mount replacement teeth or a bridge into your mouth. Unlike dentures, implants are permanent and can’t be taken out or come loose. Because implants are surgically embedded into the jaw, patients are usually put under anesthesia for the procedure.

What Are Dental Implants Made Of?

Dental implants are most commonly made from titanium. Because they are embedded into the body, it’s important to use a material such as titanium that’s accepted by the body. The actual fake teeth that are planted onto the titanium rod are often made from the same type of resin composite that dentures are made out of.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Dental implants are by far the most expensive option for restoring your teeth. A single implant crown may cost between $1,000 and $3,000. That being said, dental implants also often outlast veneers and dentures and are worth the investment if you desire a low-maintenance, long-lasting cosmetic fix for missing teeth.

More often than not, dental insurance won’t cover the cost of dental implants so it’s important to talk to your dentist about payment plans.

Dentures, Veneers, and Implants: Which Option Is Best for You?

After reading this article, I hope that you have a better understanding of which cosmetic option might be the best choice for you. However, until you make an appointment and have an exam done by a dentist, it’s impossible to truly know what procedure will be in your best interest.

I recommend that you give us a call at (602)714-7232 and come visit us at Smile Max 365 so we can help further explain what option will be the best match for your unique circumstances.

While you are here, I’ll even have our expert dental insurance team help you figure out what your insurance covers (FREE of charge!) so you can make an educated decision on what you can afford.

Call us at (602)714-7232 to set up a 100% free consultation.