Oftentimes, it’s not always clear which dental procedure is best for your smile. For example, many patients find themselves wondering whether they should get veneers or crowns to correct the problems that they’re having with their teeth. Naturally, the correct answer can vary from case to case. Your dentist is here to help you make the right decision for your grin by making sure that you understand the differences between veneers or crowns.
Comparing Veneers and Crowns
At a basic level, veneers and crowns are somewhat similar because they both cover a given tooth. That being said, a veneer is meant to be placed on the front of the tooth while a crown encases the entire thing. Both can be made out of materials that closely match the appearance of your natural tooth enamel.
One of the biggest differences between veneers and crowns is the reason for having them placed. Veneers are generally recommended specifically for making improvements to the appearance of a tooth, such as by covering discolored spots or small chips. On the other hand, crowns can potentially be placed for cosmetic reasons, but they can also be used to repair and strengthen damaged teeth so that they can function properly again.
When preparing the teeth for either veneers or crowns, a small amount of enamel needs to be taken off. Since veneers only partially cover the tooth, they generally require less enamel removal, thus allowing you to keep more of your natural dental structure.
Finally, it should be noted that dental insurance will often help pay for crowns but not veneers. This is because many insurance plans do not include coverage for purely cosmetic procedures, which veneers are typically classified as.
So Should You Get Veneers or Crowns?
Ultimately, it depends on what you’re trying to accomplish with your smile. If you are unhappy with the way your teeth look, veneers can be an excellent way to make all kinds of improvements. You can get a single veneer to correct just one problem tooth or a full set of veneers to transform your entire grin.
Meanwhile, a crown may be necessary for correcting a serious oral health issue. Common examples include teeth that are badly damaged or suffering from extensive decay.
Your dentist can help you decide whether veneers or crowns are the best option in your case. They can give you a personalized recommendation after thoroughly examining your smile. Don’t waste any time in scheduling a consultation today if you think you may benefit from getting veneers or crowns.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Tadros went to the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, eventually earning a Doctor of Dental Surgery. His Dallas practice, Del Rey Dental, offers customized dental crowns for repairing teeth as well as dazzling veneers for enhancing smiles. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Tadros, visit his website or call (469) 917-7444.