When it comes to dental restorations, there is a wide range of options to choose from. Crowns and veneers are especially popular among dental patients who want to improve both the functionality and appearance of their teeth. The two share similarities in terms of design, treatment, and ultimate appearance. However, they are distinct from each other, and dentists may not use them interchangeably in all situations.
It's important to note that dental restorations can be quite costly. Therefore, you should have a thorough understanding of each step to make the most suitable decision for yourself. In this blog, we will delve into both methods, examining their differences and outlining the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Understanding Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are types of dental restoration methods that surround or cover a dental implant or tooth. It's usually required when a significant cavity affects a tooth's health. A dental crown is used to restore the normal size, function, and shape of the teeth. It can help to reinforce and enhance the appearance of an affected tooth.
Dentists can recommend using dental crowns for the following reasons:
- If an individual has a larger dental cavity that can't be filled.
- If the patient's teeth are weakened, broken, or worn down.
- If an individual has undergone root canal therapy. In this situation, a crown would be required to restore the affected tooth.
- If an individual requires treatment to cover up discolored or badly shaped teeth to improve their appearance.
Dental crowns usually cover the affected teeth since most parts of the teeth require grounding or fillings to prepare them for dental crown replacement. If a patient's teeth have deteriorated, the affected parts will be removed before the crown is made. To support the dental crown, the teeth might need some buildup. If the teeth are severely damaged, the patient would also require build-up support. The dentist will administer a local anesthetic during the procedure.
An Overview of Dental Veneers
These are thin layers of custom-made material that are placed on the surface of teeth to enhance their appearance and protect them from damage. Composite and porcelain materials are the two main types of products used to make veneers. They are solely intended to cover the exterior surface of the teeth.
Veneers can help with a variety of dental cosmetic problems, such as discolored, chipped, or fractured teeth. They can also repair teeth that are smaller than usual. In the case of chipped or fractured teeth, some individuals prefer to have only a single veneer placed. However, most individuals consider that a smile should have between 6 and 8 veneers to appear balanced and symmetrical. Dental veneers are most frequently installed on the upper front teeth.
Your dentist can advise you on the following types of veneers:
- Traditional veneers.
- No-prep dental veneers.
Traditional veneers require more extensive preparation work prior to placement. Your dental professional might be forced to grind down the affected tooth's structure or, in some cases, remove parts of the tooth's enamel. The preparation enables effective veneer application. Traditional veneers call for irreversible dental preparation, which can be uncomfortable and necessitate the use of local anesthetic.
No-prep veneers need minor dental preparation and tooth modification. Instead of removing every layer of the problematic tooth beneath the enamel, a no-prep dental veneer can only tackle the affected enamel. No-prep veneers require less preparation than regular veneers. As a result, an anesthetic is not required.
Difference Between Dental Crowns and Dental Veneers
Although dental veneers and crowns have a lot in common, they can differ significantly. The key differences between them include the following:
A dental crown is slightly thicker than a veneer, about 2mm thick. Dental crowns are made entirely of porcelain joined to all-metal restorations or metal alloys, whereas a dental veneer can be made of any material.
Crowns can be used to restore the appearance and functionality of badly damaged teeth. They can be fitted to any tooth, whether at the back or in front. Dental veneers, on the other hand, are better suited for front teeth. They are fitted on gently damaged teeth to restore the functionality and appearance of existing teeth.
Veneers can only cover the frontal layer of the teeth. They're less invasive compared to dental crowns and need less tooth preparation for implantation. During the placing of crowns, most of the damaged teeth have to be extracted to make room for the dental crown. Dental crowns can be used to cover either the back or front surfaces of your teeth.
The ideal option for you relies on the type of dental problem you're trying to solve and the state of the damaged teeth. The following are some of the common issues that require crowns and dental veneers:
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth.
- Decayed or weakened teeth.
- Crooked teeth.
- Teeth discoloration.
Dental crowns are an ideal option for teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, have significant fillings, or are significantly fractured or worn down. On the other hand, your dentist may recommend a dental veneer if you are dealing with teeth that are generally undamaged but require something additional for cosmetic reasons. Veneer is also an ideal option for minor dental modifications.
Unless you opt for an all-metal crown, your new crown or veneer will look like the natural color and contour of your teeth.
The Cost of Dental Veneers and Crowns
Dental restorations are usually expensive. Therefore, expect to spend a little bit more on dental veneers and crowns. However, the charges differ from one dental office to the next. The quantity and size of the teeth that will undergo dental work, the placement of the affected teeth, as well as the going rate in your area, can all have an impact on the costs.
The problem is that many dental insurance plans do not cover cosmetic dental work. Cosmetic dentistry plans have yearly caps that you can't exceed unless you intend to spend cash. Before reaching a final decision, it is best to consult with your healthcare coverage provider.
Veneers usually cost between $925 and two thousand five hundred dollars per tooth. Porcelain veneers will cost more than composite dental veneers. Porcelain veneers, on the other hand, last longer, which means you may get outstanding value for the money you spend. The cost of crowns is also determined by the type of material used for the dental crowns, the number, and type of preparation required for the teeth, as well as the size of every tooth.
Crowns usually cost one thousand dollars to three thousand five hundred dollars per afflicted tooth. This amount does not include any additional processes that might be required to guarantee that the installation goes smoothly. You might have to shell out more for root canal therapy, core buildup, and any additional procedures that could be necessary before the dental restoration.
Porcelain and ceramic materials make more expensive crowns compared to all-metal dental crowns. If you're on a tight budget, you could recommend payment for visiting your dentist.
Maintenance of Dental Crowns and Dental Veneers
Caring for dental veneers and crowns after installation is crucial to ensure that they, as well as the tooth beneath, stay strong and healthy. Maintaining cleanliness is one solid approach to taking care of your dental restorations. Brushing the teeth at least two times a day is recommended by dentists. Make sure that the area where your gums touch the porcelain remains clean.
This region, also known as the margin, is where bacteria and plaque accumulate and can lead to tooth decay and cavities if not cleaned. Flossing also helps since it removes particles of food from between the teeth, which your toothbrush cannot reach.
It can also help if you intend to make regular appointments with your dental professional for a dental checkup. During these checks, your dental professional can x-ray the dental implants to assess the condition of the teeth beneath the crown or veneers. If an issue is identified, it can be addressed before it worsens. Early intervention helps to avoid significant dental problems while also saving both money and time.
Dental Crowns Advantages and Disadvantages
Before deciding, it's important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of dental crowns. These include the following:
Benefits
A dental crown covers every visible part of a tooth. As a result, the tooth is protected from decay and infections. If you're in a position to acquire porcelain crowns, the dental restoration would feel and appear identical to your actual teeth. You can keep your dental work to yourself without anyone knowing.
Dental crowns are long-lasting restorations. You won't need to remove and reattach them for cleaning, as you would with dentures. You may be able to have your dental insurer cover a portion of the costs for dental crowns, significantly reducing the total amount you need to pay out of pocket for the procedure.
Drawbacks
During preparation for the placement of a dental crown, a significant portion of the original teeth needs to be removed. It's not a dental surgery that's going to try to save your original teeth.
Crowned teeth are initially more sensitive to heat and cold. You could feel pain in your gums. The pain that comes with getting a dental crown or two turns off many people. If the pain and sensitivity persist, you can visit your dentist.
Porcelain dental crowns are highly delicate and may break sooner rather than later.
If you get porcelain merged into a metal alloy crown, you could have to deal with a black line between the dental crown and the natural teeth. It could have an even greater impact on the way you smile.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Dental Veneers
Veneers, like any other dental restoration, have advantages and downsides that you should be aware of before making a final decision. Among them are:
Benefits
Veneers appear more cosmetically attractive than dental crowns. As a result, they are suitable for repairing a dental situation while also improving your appearance and feeling. Furthermore, unlike crowns, veneers don't leave gum margins after a while. As a result, you can enjoy its stunning appearance for a longer period.
Before installing veneers, the natural tooth requires little preparation. As a result, this type of dental restoration process will preserve more of your natural tooth and all of its benefits. For installation purposes, your dentist will just need to trim the natural tooth slightly.
After the placement of a dental veneer, your tooth should move only slightly. If you grind or clench your teeth during the night, you might need to put on a mouth guard to shield the dental restoration while holding it in place for a longer period.
Drawbacks
Since dental veneers don't cover the teeth's surface, they expose a portion of the teeth to decay and infections. Therefore, it's possible to have new difficulties with previously treated teeth. Veneers are costly to install and will only last for no more than 5 years. Some materials could last longer, but they'll have to be replaced sooner rather than later.
The process of installing veneers is irreversible and permanent. You can't change the decision once the procedure has been completed. The majority of dental restorations, including the installation of dental veneers, are not covered by insurance. As a result, you have to be financially able to cover the full costs before treatment
Choosing Between Dental Veneers and Crowns
The type of dental issue you suffer from and the outcome you expect will have an effect on your decision regarding a dental veneer or crown. It's recommended to reach out to your dental professional about this beforehand so you can make the right decision. During your initial appointment, you might bring up questions such as:
- If there are superior options to dental veneers and crowns for your particular case, such as dentures and implants.
- The durability of the crown or veneer.
- Whether you'll need to put on a mouthguard following the installation.
- Your dentist could advise you on whether further care is required for your dental restoration.
Find a Dental Specialist Near Me
Dental veneers and crowns are two dental restoration techniques that share similarities but are not identical. Consequently, it's common for people to confuse the two. If you're looking to enhance the appearance and functionality of your teeth, it's advisable to consult with a skilled dentist for guidance and assistance. For more information, call our dental specialists at Lasting Impressions Dental Spa today at 818-751-5100. Our state-of-the-art dental facility in Encino, California is fully equipped to handle and prevent oral health issues, as well as restore your smile. Our team of dental specialists offers a range of dental services to cater to your needs.
