When it comes to improving your smile, dentures and veneers are two dental solutions designed for distinct needs.
If you’re wondering, “Are veneers the same as dentures?” The short answer is no. Veneers address minor imperfections and dentures are a comprehensive tooth replacement option. With that in mind, the question becomes, “What’s the difference between dentures and veneers?”
In this blog, we share everything you need to know about veneers vs. dentures so that you can learn which may be right for you.
Restorative vs. Cosmetic Dentistry
Before answering, “What’s the difference between veneers and dentures?” we need to explain restorative and cosmetic dentistry, and which category veneers and dentures fit into.
Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring the structure, health, and function of your teeth. It typically involves treatments targeting decay, infection, or damage to your teeth. This may include procedures such as fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, and dentures.
Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the aesthetics of your teeth. It enhances the appearance of our smiles, giving us improved confidence, especially in social settings. Some treatments that fall under cosmetic dentistry include teeth whitening, veneers, and bonding.
What Are Veneers vs. Dentures?
While veneers and dentures both aim to enhance your smile, they are quite different dental solutions.
Veneers
Are veneers fake teeth like dentures? No, think of veneers as teeth “accessories.” Veneers are thin, custom-fitted shells adhered to the front of teeth to improve their appearance. Made from materials such as porcelain or composite resin, they resemble natural tooth enamel and help improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or cracked teeth.
Veneers can be the right solution for individuals with good oral health but minor imperfections they wish to correct. Those who maintain regular oral hygiene are often good candidates, as veneers require upkeep.
Veneers are best suited for individuals who have minor cosmetic issues with their teeth, such as stains, chips, cracks, slight misalignments, or gaps, and are looking to enhance the aesthetic appearance of their smiles without extensive orthodontic or restorative procedures.
Your dentist can determine if veneers are right for improving your smile and how many will be required.
Dentures
Are veneers dentures? No. They both help create a natural-looking smile, but that’s about where the similarities between veneers and dentures end. While veneers may cover up imperfections in teeth, they don’t replace missing teeth the way dentures do.
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices designed to missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Dentures are acrylic or metal, covered with plastic, porcelain, or resin. They’re custom-made by a dental technician to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth.
There are two main types of dentures: complete (full) dentures and partial dentures. Complete dentures replace all the teeth in one or both arches, while partial dentures replace only a few missing teeth and are supported by the remaining natural teeth. Dentures can use natural teeth, dental implants, or gums to stay in place, depending on your condition.
Dentures are best suited for individuals who have lost most or all of their natural teeth and are seeking a solution to restore both the appearance and functionality of their teeth and jaws. The ideal denture candidate is someone with healthy gums and adequate bone volume to support the dentures.
Differences Between Dentures And Veneers
Navigating the world of dentistry can be daunting, especially when faced with choices like veneers and dentures. Let’s break down the difference between dentures and veneers — including their structure, purpose, appearance, maintenance, cost, and durability — to help you understand what to expect.
- Structure: Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that adhere to the front surface of your teeth and cannot be removed. Meanwhile, dentures are removable prosthetic appliances that replace all or some missing teeth.
- Purpose: Veneers are cosmetic, addressing issues like discoloration, chips, and minor imperfections. Dentures, on the other hand, serve to restore both the appearance and function of a person’s teeth and jaw.
- Appearance: Blending seamlessly with natural teeth, veneers offer a realistic and aesthetic appearance and are custom-made to mimic the desired shade. Aiming to mimic natural teeth and gums, dentures may offer a different subtlety in appearance than veneers.
- Maintenance: Veneers require regular oral hygiene similar to natural teeth — brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups. Meanwhile, dentures need daily removal and cleaning, regular adjustments for fit, and specific care products.
- Durability: In terms of durability, veneers can last around ten years with proper care. However, they can chip or crack if subjected to excessive force or trauma. Traditional dentures last 5–8 years on average, although they may require adjustments or replacements due to natural wear and tear.
So, which is better, veneers or dentures? There isn’t a straightforward answer to this question because veneers and dentures are used for different scenarios. We recommend learning on the expertise of dental professionals to guide your decision.
Trust Northside Dental Co. to Help You Decide On Veneers vs. Dentures
As we’ve explored, both veneers and dentures cater to distinct dental needs and goals. Veneers are cosmetic enhancements for existing teeth, while dentures restore both form and function to those with significant tooth loss.
Every smile is unique, and what works for one individual might not be the best fit for another.
Book an appointment at Northside Dental Co. if you’re on the fence about veneers vs. dentures and want to explore the best dental solutions for your situation. Our team is committed to transforming traditional dental care, ensuring every patient feels comfortable, welcome, and confident, knowing our treatments are backed by the latest dental technology.
