Crowns vs Veneers
You may have heard of porcelain veneers and dental crowns, but do you know the differences between them? Both can be used in cosmetic dentistry treatments, though one is also common for restorative care. Either will be able to treat a wide variety of issues between them depending on the needs of patients.
The dentists at Gooch Family Dental in Birmingham, AL, will let you know. Here, we discuss the benefits of dental crowns and porcelain veneers, and why one may be better for your oral health needs.
What Are Porcelain Veneers?
It is important to know that porcelain veneers are thin ceramic shells, and only cover the front surfaces of the teeth. They are crafted at a dental lab using an impression of a tooth with a little bit of the enamel removed. The underlying tooth structure is still subject to decay and infection, so proper hygiene is essential.
Veneers come in two types, composite and porcelain. Generally speaking, composite veneers are less expensive, while their porcelain counterparts are more durable.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A crown is a cap that fits over the entire tooth, protecting the underlying structure. They are often created by an outside dental lab using an impression of your teeth. Different materials can be used to create a crown, including metal, resin, and porcelain. Our Birmingham office also offers same-day porcelain crown service using CEREC® technology.
When Are Veneers the Right Option?
Porcelain veneers are an effective way to treat a number of cosmetic dental issues. They are excellent for correcting
- Crooked teeth
- Gaps
- Spaces
- Tooth discoloration
- Chips and cracks
When Are Crowns the Right Option?
Crowns can be used for cosmetic procedures as well, but their primary purpose is to restore or strengthen damaged or decayed teeth. This makes sense since unlike veneers, a crown covers the entire tooth.
Your dentist may recommend a crown to:
- Treat a large cavity
- Strengthen a weakened tooth
- Restore a broken or fractured tooth
- Hold a dental bridge in place
- Restore a dental implant
- Conceal a misshapen or discolored tooth
Comparing Treatment Timelines
The treatment timelines for veneers and crowns are similar when impressions are sent to a dental lab. It will usually take around two weeks, depending on how many cases the lab is working on. As mentioned above, CEREC crowns can be made in just a single dental visit.
Which Option is Right for Me?
Ultimately, it comes down to your specific and unique needs.
- Veneers are effective for enhancing the aesthetics of your smile, but they may not be right for tooth decay and major structural damage affecting a tooth.
- Crowns are ideal for major issues with fractures and cavities, but since they are restorative in nature, they require more invasive treatment and more tooth enamel removal.
During a consultation with Dr. Gooch, we can explore all of your treatment options with you in detail.
Speak with Our Experienced Dentists
If you have any more questions regarding veneers or crowns, we would be happy to answer them. Call our dentists at (205) 545-8001 or go online to schedule an appointment.