Crowns and veneers are both very popular treatments in the dental world; but how can you tell which one you need? To answer this question, you first need to know what they are used for, the procedure, and the pros and cons. This article explains everything you need to know in order to choose between a crown vs. veneer.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap in the shape of your tooth, placed over it to cover it and improve its strength and appearance. Attached to your teeth by means of a cement-like material, these caps become the only visible part of the teeth in your mouth.
What Is the Dental Crown Procedure?
First, your doctor orders X-rays to check your tooth, then reshapes the tooth to open up some space for your crown attachment. Keep in mind that the amount of space needed at this stage depends on your crown type.
Next, your dentist makes an impression of your tooth to have the crown made in a dental lab, which can take two to three weeks. If your crown is made of porcelain, you should also select the shade of the crown to match your other teeth.
In the end, when your crown is ready, your doctor will check its shape and shade before permanently attaching the crown to your tooth.
What Is a Veneer?
Dental veneers are ultra-thin shells that cover only the front surface of your teeth will a solely cosmetic purpose. They are usually made of porcelain or resin composite and resolve the problem of discolored teeth.
What Is the Veneer Procedure?
First, you need a consultation to make sure applying a dental veneer is the right option for you. Then your dentist reshapes the teeth and makes an impression of them to send to the lab. When your veneers are ready, your doctor will try them on your teeth to ensure they match perfectly.
Next, your teeth are cleaned and polished to prepare the perfect surface for the veneers to stick. Then your doctor uses a special light beam to activate the bonding and attach the veneers to your teeth.
In the end, your dentist checks your bite and applies the final touches to perfect the look. They might also ask you for a follow-up couple of weeks later.
Dental Crowns Pros and Cons
When it comes to dental crown vs. veneer, you should know the pros and cons of crowns first:
Dental Crowns Pros
Dental crowns
- Support and protect your damaged teeth;
- Cover the broken or cracked teeth;
- Cover dental implants;
- Stop the teeth wear;
- Last between five to fifteen years.
Dental Crowns Cons
- More expensive than veneers;
- Possibility of allergic reaction to the material;
- Possibility of cracking and breaking;
- It is an invasive procedure.
To better understand the difference between crowns and veneers, you also need to know the pros and cons of having veneers:
Veneers Pros and Cons
Veneer Pros
- Durable;
- More affordable;
- Easier to apply;
- Fitting your teeth.
Veneer Cons
- Teeth sensitivity;
- Less support and protection than crowns;
- Lasting shorter than crowns;
- Not covered by insurance.
Can You Put a Veneer on a Crown?
In most cases, you cannot put a veneer on a crown. As mentioned earlier, as a part of the veneer procedure, your doctor reshapes the enamel to prepare the perfect surface for the veneer. This step cannot be done when you have a crown, so you will not have the ideal surface for dental adhesives to work.
In other words, a veneer on a crown is not a good idea because it is not a durable solution. You are usually recommended to replace your crown instead of getting a veneer on the old one. However, your dentist can better answer this question.
Crown vs. Veneer; What Is the Final Verdict?
If you have had a root canal, a large filling, or a broken tooth, a dental crown might be helpful as it encases the tooth for protection and aesthetics purposes. You can also use a dental crown when you have a missing tooth, and you are considering an implant. In any case, you need several visits with your dentist until you get the perfect crown.
Veneers are a great idea if you have misshaped, small, or stained teeth and want them to look better. Bear in mind that the main difference between veneers vs. crowns is that veneers are not for covering damaged teeth like crowns, because they only cover the front surface of your teeth.
Are You Ready for Your Appointment?
This article discussed the pros and cons of a porcelain crown vs. veneer to help you understand these two popular procedures. If you want porcelain veneers or crowns in Orange County or Mission Viejo, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts at Aria Dental ensures you will have the best experience and result, just as you imagine it.
