Your dentist says you’re going to need some work done. You don’t need a whole new tooth, but a simple filling won’t fix things for you either. A veneer or crown may do the trick, but these procedures serve different purposes.
If you’re considering ways to restore your teeth and enhance your smile, then you have two great options with crowns and veneers. Both are common, and when done properly, can achieve great results.
Although both treatments will improve the appearance of your smile, there are some key differences to be aware of. Choosing the right option for your smile should be made through consultation with your dentist. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Dan McFarland in Missoula, Montana please call our offices at 406.542.0030.
Veneers vs. Crowns: What’s the Difference & Which is Better?
When it comes to repairing or enhancing your teeth, crowns and veneers offer their own unique advantages. Functionally and aesthetically, veneers and crowns serve two different purposes. A dental crown (also known as“tooth caps”) cover the entire tooth, while veneers typically only cover the part of the tooth that is visible when you smile.
Deciding between crowns and veneers on front teeth will be different for everyone. One of the biggest factors will depend on tooth health, or if only aesthetic enhancement is desired. A permanent crown is often used to repair broken, chipped or otherwise unhealthy teeth while also achieving a natural looking smile. Porcelain veneers are used strictly for cosmetic purposes and can restore your smile back to a very natural look.
What is the difference between a veneer and a crown?
Veneers are thin layers of porcelain that cover the front of your existing teeth. They’re not as invasive as crowns because the preparation leaves more of your natural tooth intact. It’s important to note that for a veneer to bond to it, your tooth must have enough enamel for it to be effective. Porcelain veneers are usually recommended for use when there is a gap between your teeth, or if your teeth are crooked, chipped or yellowing.
Crowns are thicker than veneers and cover the entire surface of your natural tooth. Crowns are more commonly used for non-cosmetic purposes such as repairing a broken tooth, cracked tooth, or replacing a damaged filling. If you have tooth decay, your dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth before making the crown. In this case, your tooth may need to be built up to support the crown and will likely require a local anesthetic.
Whether a veneer or a crown is right for you will depend on the condition of your tooth and what the objective is for the procedure.
When it comes to porcelain crowns vs veneers, there’s no clear winner. Both treatments can be effective, long-lasting solutions for dental dilemmas. Ultimately, the best option is the one that suits your unique situation and is decided through consultation with your dental health professional.
If you would like to learn more about veneers, same-day crowns and the other advanced technology we use at our office to improve your smile, please call Ponderosa Dental Group and schedule your appointment with Missoula’s best dentist, Dr. Dan, and make 2022 the year of the smile!
We’re passionate about healthy, beautiful smiles, visit our Instagram page @danmcfarlanddds or our website to see before and after photos of our patients!