Dental Veneers vs Crowns
How to Choose Your Smile Enhancer
At Dousman Family Dentistry, we offer both dental veneers and crowns. Veneers, thin shells made of porcelain or composite materials, enhance the appearance of front teeth, addressing issues like discoloration. Dental crowns provide structural support for more extensive damage. Contact Dousman Family Dentistry to discuss dental veneers or crown options for a healthier, more radiant smile.
What are Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers are ultra-thin porcelain or composite resin covers which bond directly to the front of existing teeth. Veneers provide a seamless surface over chips, gaps, stains or misalignments. They offer a minimally invasive way to improve smile aesthetics with little tooth reduction needed. During a series of dental visits, veneers are custom fabricated and delicately bonded in place for a transformative effect.
What are Dental Crowns?
Unlike veneers adhered to existing teeth, crowns fully encapsulate damaged or decayed teeth. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth to rebuild, strengthen and restore function. Crowns require more preparation to securely fit over the top of the tooth. Porcelain fused to metal or all-ceramic crowns are common durable choices. They provide individual tooth restoration for severely compromised teeth.
Is a Veneer or Crown Right for Me?
Given that veneers and crowns appear to serve similar functions, can they be used interchangeably? In reality, no. Our dentists advise a specific dental treatment based on your circumstances. Dental crowns are generally recommended when a tooth is extensively damaged, has a large filling or has undergone a root canal, as the compromised tooth enamel requires enhanced protection. Porcelain veneers are a popular choice due to their natural cosmetic appearance. If your tooth is mostly intact and requires minor shape correction or improved appearance, your dentist is likely to suggest porcelain veneers. At Dousman Family Dentistry, we're here to guide you toward the best choice!
Veneers vs Crowns: Key Differences
Veneers and crowns serve different primary purposes. Veneers focus on aesthetic enhancements, while crowns address substantial structural issues. Key differences between veneers and crowns:
- Veneers are minimally invasive, crowns require significant tooth reduction
- Veneers modify color and alignment, crowns rebuild, replace and reinforce
- The veneer process takes multiple dental visits, crowns can be done in one visit with CEREC
- Veneers provide discrete subtle changes, crowns completely cover and transform visible teeth
- Veneers tend to cost less than crowns on average
Risks of Veneers and Crowns
Navigating dental choices requires careful consideration. Before suggesting veneer or crown services, our dentists conduct thorough evaluations of patients.
Not for everyone: Dentists avoid recommending veneers for individuals with poor gum health or teeth grinding.
Regret: Veneers are irreversible, and while crowns may save teeth, they can heighten discomfort and sensitivity. Allergic reactions to materials are possible.
Wear: Veneers may decay and, if cracked, require replacement. Crowns are susceptible to chipping, and a large chip may necessitate replacing the entire crown. Cement wear-down can make the crown feel loose or lead to it falling off.
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, both veneers and crowns can offer long-lasting solutions for a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing smile!
