If your teeth have started to show signs of wear in the form of cracks, chips, or discoloration, you may be considering undergoing a cosmetic treatment to correct this. With so many treatments available, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Porcelain veneers and dental crowns can fix some similar issues, so which one should I go with? Read on to learn about how these treatments work and whether veneers or crowns are right for you.
What Are Veneers?
Veneers are made from thin pieces of dental-grade porcelain and adhere to the front of a tooth to cover it entirely and can cover cosmetic issues like gaps, discoloration, chips, alignment problems, cracks, and misshapen teeth. Your dentist will prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel. This allows your veneers to seamlessly blend with your smile. They will be color-matched to the surrounding teeth so no one can tell that they aren’t a natural part of your pearly whites.
What Are Dental Crowns?
These tooth-shaped caps completely cover the visible part of a tooth to improve its look and function. This means that they offer both restorative and cosmetic benefits. Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, resin, porcelain, and ceramics. Some tooth of the structure will need to be removed before placing the crown so it doesn’t stick out or interrupt your bite. Each one is customized to perfectly fit your smile.
4 Differences Between Crowns & Veneers
Since veneers and crowns can both be used to improve the look of damaged teeth, how do they differ? There are several differences between these two treatments, including:
- Purpose – Dental crowns offer both restorative and cosmetic benefits. Porcelain veneers are generally used for cosmetic purposes.
- Shape – Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps, and veneers are thin shells.
- Timing – The amount of time these procedures take to complete will vary by patient, but the dental crown procedure typically takes longer than the veneers procedure. Even so, both treatments are usually completed in two appointments.
- Cost – Veneers aren’t usually covered by dental insurance since they’re generally considered to be a cosmetic treatment, but crowns may receive partial coverage since they offer restorative benefits.
Veneers or Crowns: Which One Should I Get?
So, which procedure is the right option for you? Dental crowns and porcelain veneers treat different issues, so it depends on what you’re looking for. If you have a large cavity, just had a root canal, or have a severely cracked or damaged tooth, a crown is the better option. It will offer protection to the tooth while also restoring the look and function.
If you’re only interested in cosmetic benefits, porcelain veneers are likely the better better choice. This treatment is quick and easy to complete, meaning you can improve the look of your smile in no time.
Whether you think that veneers or crowns are right for you, make sure to schedule a consultation with your dentist. They can do an examination of your mouth to determine which procedure will give you the healthy, happy smile you desire!
About the Author
Summit Family Dentistry is led by Dr. Dinesh Patel, a talented dentist treating patients in the Waterford area. He takes pride in helping patients achieve healthy smiles and offers treatments to repair teeth and improve how they look. If you’re unsure if dental veneers or crowns are the right choice for you, he can examine your smile to help you make the right choice for your pearly whites. To make an appointment with Dr. Patel and his team at Summit Family Dentistry, call their office at (814) 923-4510 or visit their website.