Veneers vs. Crowns: Which is Right for You?

Veneers and crowns are commonly used procedures in dentistry. The restorations are made from all-ceramic materials, allowing them to provide natural-looking results. Although they have similarities, there are big differences between veneers and crowns. You don’t want to make the wrong decision when choosing a treatment to enhance your smile. Here’s what you need to know to determine which restoration is right for you.

What is a Veneer?

A veneer is a thin shell that’s bonded to the front side of a tooth to improve its color, size, and shape. A small amount of enamel is removed to ensure the restoration sits flush on your tooth. With the proper care, veneers can last for a decade or longer to enjoy a long-lasting investment.

Uses

A veneer can be bonded to a single tooth, but the overall goal of the procedure is to enhance the entire smile. Most dentists recommend bonding them with the teeth visible when smiling to correct many imperfections at once using a minimally invasive procedure, like discoloration, gaps, and chips.

Benefits

When compared to a crown, veneers are less invasive because they only cover the front side of teeth. A very minimal amount of enamel is removed during the bonding process to preserve more of your natural smile. You can fix many issues simultaneously to save time and money when turning the smile of your dreams into reality.

Disadvantages

Veneers are durable, but they shouldn’t be used on back teeth because they can break from the pressure of chewing.

Cost

Veneers can cost more than other cosmetic procedures, but they can be the most affordable solution if you want to resolve many issues. You won’t have to pay for multiple treatments. Although it’s rare for dental insurance to cover their cost, there are many payment options to keep veneers within everyone’s budget, like CareCredit.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a customized cap bonded over the entire surface of a tooth above the gum line. Your tooth must be reshaped to allow the restoration to fit over it. While every situation differs, it’s not unusual for crowns to last for 10 to 15 years before needing to be replaced.

Uses

Dental crowns are versatile because they offer both cosmetic and restorative benefits. A crown can protect a weakened tooth from breaking or repair significant damage, like a break or fracture. Crowns can also be used along with other procedures, like after a root canal or to support a bridge. In some situations, the restoration can also be used to improve the appearance of an abnormally shaped tooth.

Benefits

Modern crowns are made of natural-looking materials to blend in with your real teeth. They are strong to last for many years, no matter the reason they’re needed.

Disadvantages

Crowns are bulkier than veneers, so you wouldn’t want to use them on several front teeth. They are a better option for molars than veneers because they can withstand years of wear and tear from chewing.

Cost

Most insurance will pay $50 to 80% of the expense of dental crowns after meeting your annual deductible when needed for restorative reasons.

Choosing between a crown and a veneer is a big decision, but you don’t have to make it alone. Your dentist will examine your mouth to determine which is the best restoration for your smile.

About Dr. Kenneth J. Canzoneri

Dr. Canzoneri earned his dental degree from the Northwestern Dental School and opened his private practice to provide advanced dentistry to the Arcadia community. He regularly pursues continuing education to provide specialty services, like laser, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. He is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry. Request an appointment through our website or call (626) 684-4988.