The dental veneers vs crowns debate is seemingly endless.
There are avid supporters of one over the other. However, the truth is that each has a role and place.
Let’s talk about it.
Veneers Vs Crowns
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your teeth and are considering cosmetic dentistry, you may have come across two popular options –
- dental veneers and
- crowns.
While both options can give you a brighter, more attractive smile, they have some key differences you should consider before making a decision.
This report will cover everything you need to know about dental veneers vs crowns, so you can make an informed choice.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth. They can be used to fix a range of cosmetic dental problems, including:
- Discolored teeth
- Uneven teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Small gaps between teeth
- Crooked teeth
Veneers are a popular choice for people who want to improve the appearance of their teeth without undergoing invasive dental procedures.
Unlike dental crowns, veneers only cover the front surface of the teeth. This means you’ll need less tooth preparation before the procedure.
Veneers are typically placed on front teeth, and sometimes on premolars, but almost never on molars.
What are Dental Crowns?
Crowns, also known as caps, are tooth-shaped coverings that are placed over a damaged or decayed tooth.
Dental crowns cover the entire tooth, unlike veneers, which only cover the front surface. Crowns are used to:
- Restore broken or severely decayed teeth
- Protect weak teeth from breaking
- Cover a dental implant
- Cover a tooth after root canal treatment
- Fix cosmetic dental problems, such as severe tooth discoloration or misshapen teeth
Crowns are made of various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and resin. They are custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly and match the color of your natural teeth.
Veneers vs. Crowns: What’s the Difference?
The primary difference between veneers and crowns lies in the amount of tooth preparation ahead of the procedure.
Veneers only require minimal tooth preparation, while crowns require more tooth structure to be removed to make space for the crown.
Here are some other key differences between the two procedures:
- Veneers are typically used for cosmetic purposes, while crowns are used for both cosmetic and restorative purposes.
- Veneers are best suited for front teeth, while crowns can be used on both front and back teeth.
- Veneers are thinner than crowns, which means they require less tooth removal.
- Veneers are less invasive than crowns, which means they require less anesthesia and have a shorter recovery time.
- Veneers are typically more expensive than crowns, even though they are comparable in overall expenses.
In the absence of a good dental insurance, it’s wise to enquire about costs to prevent unpleasant surprises down the line!
Most dental insurance plans will only partially cover the costs of dental veneers and crowns. The rest will have to be met out of pocket.
You could try asking about discount rates and other saving plans. Many dental practices will offer them – but only if you ask!
Veneers and Crowns : Steps In Procedure
Both veneers and crowns require similar steps, but the amount of tooth preparation required and the materials used can vary.
In both of them, you must first remove the tooth enamel. There’s always some degree of reshaping needed. The extent of reshaping also depends upon the kind of veneers being used.
Dental Veneer Procedure
Here are the steps to get dental veneers:
- Consultation: Your dentist will examine your teeth to determine if you’re a good candidate for veneers. They’ll discuss the process with you and answer any questions you may have.
- Tooth preparation: Your dentist will remove a thin layer of enamel from the front surface of your tooth to make room for the veneer. They’ll take an impression of your tooth and send it to a dental laboratory to create your custom veneer.
- Temporary veneer: Your dentist will place a temporary veneer on your tooth until the lab builds your permanent veneer. This temporary veneer will protect your tooth and also offer a ‘sneak preview’ of what you’ll look like.
- Veneer placement: Once your custom veneer is ready, your dentist will remove the
After preparing the crown, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth and send them to the dental lab. In the lab, specialists will create your custom-made crown. Your dentist will place a temporary crown over your tooth while you wait for the permanent one.
During your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one on your tooth. They will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments before permanently cementing it into place.
Typically, this is a multi-visit procedure. However, under certain circumstances, it is possible to have veneers fitted as a single-day treatment. That’s because advanced 3D imaging technology allows for more rapid modelling and fitting of veneers.
Veneers vs. Crowns: Which One Is Right for You?
The decision between veneers and crowns depends on your specific dental needs. If you’re looking to make cosmetic changes to your front teeth, veneers are usually the better option.
However, if you have a tooth that needs more extensive restoration due to decay, trauma, or other factors, a dental crown may be necessary.
Your dentist will evaluate your dental health and make a recommendation based on your individual needs. It’s essential to discuss your goals and any concerns you have about the procedure with your dentist.
Cost of Veneers vs. Crowns
The cost of veneers and crowns varies depending on several factors, including:
- the material used
- location of the tooth
- the experience and location of the dentist
- number of teeth you’re treating
Porcelain veneers are typically more expensive than dental bonding, but they last longer and provide more natural-looking results. The cost of veneers ranges from $800 to $2,500 per tooth.
Dental crowns are generally more expensive than veneers due to their full coverage and the more extensive preparation needed. The cost of dental crowns ranges from $800 to $1,500 per tooth.
Your cost of veneers and crowns is often covered by most dental insurance plans. As long as the procedure is deemed medically necessary, you’ll get at least partial reimbursement.
However, insurance will not usually cover cosmetic treatments.
Maintaining Your Veneers and Crowns
Both veneers and crowns are durable and long-lasting if properly cared for. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to protect your investment in your smile.
Here are some tips for caring for your veneers or crowns:
- Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage your restorations
- Don’t chew on ice or other hard objects
- Wear a night-guard if you grind your teeth
- See your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
So, Which Is Better – Veneers or Crowns?
Veneers and crowns are both excellent options for restoring and improving the appearance of your teeth.
You use veneers typically for cosmetic purposes, while opting for crowns to restore teeth damaged or weakened by disease or trauma.
Your dentist will evaluate your dental needs and recommend the best option for you.
It’s essential to discuss the procedure’s cost and maintenance requirements with your dentist to make an informed decision about your dental health.
By following good oral hygiene practices and taking care of your restorations, you can enjoy your new smile for many years to come.
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