People who have healthy, beautiful smiles enjoy showing them off, but smiling can be an emotionally painful experience for others who have discolored, chipped or misaligned teeth. That’s not surprising, considering that first impressions can have an effect on how we are perceived by others, whether applying for a new job or going on a first date. In fact, according to a recent survey, 29 percent of Americans interviewed stated that the first thing they notice and remember about a face is a person’s teeth. Thankfully, there are a lot of effective options to help you transform your teeth into the pearly whites you’ve always dreamed of.

Two of the most popular solutions for a less-than-perfect smile are dental implants and porcelain veneers. Here’s the scoop on how they can brighten your smile.

What Are Veneers?

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, veneers are custom-created eggshell-thin pieces of porcelain designed to cover the front side of your teeth and hide imperfections. Ceramic veneers look natural because they are made to match your own teeth’s unique shape and color. Because they are permanently bonded to your teeth, they are strong and resilient.

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What are Dental Implants?

Whether you have a tooth missing due to tooth decay or an accident, or need several teeth replaced, dental implants are a great permanent solution. A dental implant functions like a natural tooth, and unlike a crown or bridge, is secured directly into the jaw bone without the need for shaving or filing healthy teeth.

Who Should I Trust To Fix My Smile?

When it comes to veneers and fixed dental implants, the artistry of the dental professional is as important as the materials used, so make sure you work with a dentist who specializes in creating beautiful smiles. For example, Dr. Leopardi is a Denver-based aesthetic dentist and prosthodontist who specializes in implanted, fixed and removable dentistry.

Are Dental Implants or Veneers a Good Option for Me?

If you have healthy, but unsightly teeth, veneers might be a good choice for permanent smile beautification. Veneers are great for fixing chipped, discolored, poorly-shaped, or decayed teeth. Other candidates for veneers include smiles with bite-related issues, minor crowding, and slight tooth-gaps. If you are missing teeth, dental implants are a good permanent solution.

If you’d like the boost of confidence that having a beautiful smile brings, talk to your dentist about whether veneers or implants are your best option. By working with a specialist you can be a part of the design process, and through the latest in cosmetic imaging you’ll even be able to preview your new smile before any work has begun.