Modern dentistry has many methods for improving the appearance and restoring the function of your teeth. Whether you have crooked, chipped, missing, or discolored teeth, our care team at The Glen Dental of San Jose, California, has a solution for your smile.
Some of the most popular selections from our menu of dentistry services are veneers and dental implants. If you’re interested in these procedures, what should you consider before choosing one or the other?
Our team at The Glen Dental can help you understand your options, and guide you toward the right one for your needs.
Veneers
If you’re not satisfied with the appearance of your teeth, veneers could be an option for you. Dental veneers, thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain affixed to your natural teeth, can address:
- Stains
- Uneven spacing
- Misaligned teeth
- Irregularly shaped teeth
- Worn-down teeth
It takes three appointments to secure your permanent veneers in place. At your initial consultation, we take X-rays and make sure you’re a good candidate for this nonreversible procedure.
At a second appointment, we remove a small amount of dental enamel from the tooth or teeth intended for veneers and place temporary veneers.
Once your permanent custom porcelain veneers are fixed into place at a third appointment, your teeth continue to function normally, while looking and feeling great. Veneers are long-lasting if you take proper care of them.
Implants
For lost or missing teeth, dental implants provide a great way to maintain your full oral function. Dental implants, like veneers, take multiple appointments to put in place. The total time to complete your dental implants may be as long as six months. Here’s how dental implants work.
Following an initial consultation appointment, exam, and X-rays, we take impressions of your teeth. At your second appointment, we surgically implant a titanium post into your jawbone. You wait 4-7 months for your implant to fuse to your jawbone before your next appointment.
Once your post is secured, we place a temporary cap on the implant, allowing your gums to heal in the right shape to hold your crown. After a few weeks, you’re ready for a temporary crown, and, finally, a permanent crown, designed to match your natural teeth in shape and color.
Dental implants are durable and feel and function just like your natural teeth. With dental implants, you can maintain the integrity of your bite and jawbone in cases of tooth loss or severe tooth decay.
Which should you choose?
Ultimately, the choice between veneers and implants depends on your oral and dental health. If your teeth are overall healthy, issues like small chips, cracks, irregularities, and discoloration can be effectively addressed with veneers.
If a tooth is so damaged that it needs to be removed, or if you’re already missing one or more teeth, you may need dental implants to protect your oral and digestive health and wellness.
We review your health history and dental goals, and discuss the best treatment plan for your goals, your health, and even your wallet. With our guidance, making the right choice is easy.
Call now to schedule an appointment or use our online tool to request a consultation.