Is your smile in need of a little makeover? Veneers and crowns are two effective options for improving the appearance of your teeth, but many people confuse the two and even go as far as to think they are the same. While the two treatments might be similar, there are some major differences between crowns vs. veneers. Keep reading this blog to learn what the differences are!
What are Veneers?
Veneers are made from a thin layer of porcelain or composite and are one millimeter thick in general. Applying veneers involves applying the wafer-thin shells on the surface of your teeth, fixing the cosmetic concern in a non-invasive procedure. Your dentist may have to remove some of your tooth enamel in order to place the veneer.
What are Crowns?
Dental crowns resemble your natural teeth and are used to cover a vulnerable or weakened tooth. Sometimes, the affected tooth has to be filed down in order to place the dental crown, which is fabricated to fit perfectly over the damaged tooth.
Crowns vs. Veneers: How They Are Similar
The main similarity between veneers and crowns is that they remarkably improve how your teeth look. Both can be helpful in fixing teeth that are discolored, crooked, decayed, chipped, cracked, or broken — depending on the condition and severity; your dentist will recommend one of these. Caring for both crowns and veneers virtually requires the same care, which includes brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and overall oral health maintenance. You will also need to visit the dentist twice a year to ensure your teeth remain on top of their health.
In the end, crowns and veneers present you with a seamless smile, matching your natural teeth. So, another similarity between the two would be their natural appearance.
Difference Between Crowns vs. Veneers
The primary factor that separates the treatments is that crowns are more of a restorative dentistry option, whereas veneers are usually considered a part of cosmetic dentistry. Another difference is that while veneers are only used to cover the front surface of your tooth, crowns help cover the entire structure. This helps protect the damaged tooth from outside factors.
Dental crowns are thicker in comparison to veneers, and they show more gum margin. This makes veneers more aesthetically pleasing since they blend with the natural teeth, showing less gum margin than crowns.
Other than this, the lifespan of each is also different. With veneers, you will need a replacement after a few years. However, crowns are likely to last your entire life, but they may need to be replaced if something damages them.
Lastly, there is also a difference in how both are applied and the cost of each treatment.
Should I Have a Veneer or a Crown?
Just because both treatments cover the tooth does not mean they are interchangeable. Your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and recommend a suitable treatment for you. If your tooth has a large filling, is severely damaged, or recently underwent a root canal, a dental crown might be the better option. But veneers work best for resolving cosmetic concerns.
Takeaway
Both veneers and crowns are used to improve the appearance of your teeth. However, bonding a restorative treatment, crowns work better for severe damage. Veneers are more suitable as a cosmetic option, as they enhance the aesthetics by covering any flaws.
Houston Dental Implant Center has what you are looking for; dial to contact us now at: Bellaire: (713) 664-1661