Veneers vs. Crowns: Which One Do I Need?
If you wish to restore the appearance of your teeth, consider dental veneers vs. crowns. Both can be effective, whether for cosmetic purposes or more serious dental concerns. But which one is right for you?
It’s common to have questions about veneers and crowns. The best way to determine the solution for your needs is to understand what they are and how they differ.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin coverings of ceramic or porcelain material bonded to the front of your teeth. They correct the appearance of minor imperfections, such as discolored or chipped teeth. Veneers can also improve the shape and size of your teeth, creating a more uniform smile.
They are a popular choice for cosmetic dentistry because they look and feel like natural teeth. Veneers also only require two office visits, making them a swift and easy process.
Procedure
During the first office visit, your dentist prepares your teeth by shaving the front surface to create the ideal shape. Doing so also makes the surface rough, allowing for proper bonding.
Next, your dentist will take impressions of the prepared teeth and send them to a dental laboratory for custom fabrication. During this time, you may receive temporary veneers.
Once the permanent veneers are ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office for placement. They’ll use cement and visible light to bond the veneers to your teeth.
Pros of Veneers
Veneers are an excellent option for those wishing to make minor cosmetic changes to the appearance of their teeth. They’re also durable, lasting up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.
Veneers are less invasive than crowns and help strengthen your tooth enamel. They don’t require significant preparation and can be applied in two office visits.
Cons of Veneers
Veneers can be costly, especially if they are elective for cosmetic purposes, and may require additional visits for touch-ups. In some cases, veneers may also require more extensive tooth preparation than other treatments.
Veneers may not be suitable for individuals with existing gum recession or those who grind their teeth. In addition, they cannot repair cavities or fractures in the tooth, and they are not as strong as crowns.
What are Crowns?
Crowns, also called “caps,” are hollow shells of ceramic material that fit over your existing tooth or implant. Unlike veneers, crowns encase the tooth entirely from top to bottom.
As a result, they’re more durable than veneers and can withstand wear and tear from chewing and grinding. Crowns look and feel like natural teeth.
Procedure
Like veneers, crowns require two visits. During your first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing decay and reshaping the enamel. They will often reshape significant portions of the tooth’s sides and back.
Then, they will take impressions of your teeth and send them to the dental laboratory for custom crown fabrication. Once complete, your dentist will cement them during the second appointment.
Pros of Crowns
Crowns are a great option for those who need to repair or replace a large filling, fix a fracture in a tooth, or restore a severely damaged tooth. They’re also effective at protecting weak teeth from further damage and decay.
Cons of Crowns
Unlike veneers, crowns require extensive preparation of existing teeth, such as removing significant decay, and may require a root canal before application. Additionally, because they completely encase the tooth, some individuals may find that their crown does not match their natural teeth as well as veneers can.
Veneers vs. Crowns: The Similarities
Veneers and crowns are excellent options for adults who wish to improve the appearance of their smile. They provide a durable and beautiful restoration that looks and feels like natural teeth.
Crowns and veneers follow a similar procedure and aim to create a new smile. Both devices, whether restorative or cosmetic, boost confidence and aesthetics.
Veneers vs. Crowns: The Differences
The primary difference between veneers and crowns is the extent of preparation. Veneers require minimal to no tooth preparation, while crowns require extensive reshaping of the underlying tooth structure. In addition, veneers are often used for minor cosmetic changes, while crowns are more suitable for structural repairs or large fillings.
Another notable difference is that veneers only cover the front of your teeth, while crowns encase them entirely. Veneers are less invasive than crowns, but because they only cover the front part of your tooth, they aren’t as durable or effective at protecting weak teeth from further damage.
Which is Right for You?
The suitable device for you depends on the condition of your teeth and the results you desire. Veneers may be a better option if you need a minor cosmetic improvement. If your teeth are weak or damaged, or if you’re looking for a more durable restoration, then crowns may be the best choice.
At Lake Pointe Dental Group in O’Fallon, IL, we offer veneer and crown treatments to ensure that our patients have access to the best possible care for their smiles. We understand that dental work can seem overwhelming and intimidating, so we strive to ensure our patients feel comfortable and informed throughout every process.
If you have any questions or want to discuss which treatment option is best, don’t hesitate to call us! We’re always here to help.
Schedule an Appointment Today
At our O’Fallon, IL, family dentistry practice, we specialize in veneers and crowns. Our team boasts decades of experience helping patients achieve their dental goals. We offer comprehensive evaluations to help determine which option is best for you and your smile.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment – let’s work together to restore the health and beauty of your teeth!