Difference Between Veneers and Crowns

Veneers are thin shells that are placed over the front surface of the teeth in order to improve their appearance. Veneers are custom-made from tooth-colored materials, such as porcelain, and are designed to cover the front surface of the teeth. Crowns are also called caps because they cover the whole tooth. Crowns cover the entire tooth, both above and below the gum line, to restore its shape and size, strength and improve its appearance.

How are Veneers Different From Crowns?

There are many differences between veneers and crowns. The biggest difference is the material used to make the restoration. With veneers, your natural teeth will simply be covered with a thin shell that does a good job of mimicking the natural appearance of your teeth. The materials used in dental crowns tend to look better than natural teeth and can last a long time. However, they are bulkier than veneers and will be noticeable when you smile. They also require the removal of more of your natural tooth structure than a veneer does. This makes them ideal for teeth that aren’t as healthy but don’t need a full implant. They are also used to replace part of a broken tooth instead of the entire tooth. Finally, the cost of porcelain is more expensive than gold. This is the main reason that more people choose to get dental crowns over veneers. However, the cost varies depending on the patient’s dental insurance, so don’t be discouraged from asking about payment!

Which Option Is Right for Me?

To determine if your smile is healthy enough for cosmetic treatment, the dentist will begin with a physical examination. X-rays will be taken to determine if any damage has occurred below the gum line. The dentist will also examine your bite to make sure that it’s properly aligned and won’t cause discomfort after the veneers or crowns are placed. In some cases, additional treatments may be required before placing veneers, such as braces. This is because poorly positioned teeth can worsen over time if left untreated. If the teeth aren’t healthy enough to support veneers, it will damage the natural teeth further.

After a complete examination has been conducted, your dentist will discuss treatment options with you. They will go over the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed choice as to which is the best one for you. In some cases, patients choose to combine procedures, such as getting both porcelain veneers and a dental crown to cover more tooth surfaces.

Get in touch with Peak Family Dentistry at 4933 Brainerd Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37411, or call (423) 899-1948 to schedule an appointment for the best dental care based on your specific needs.