While veneers and crowns can be similar in their physical appearance, they serve different purposes.
Here we will break down what to consider if you’re looking to get veneers or crowns.
Verywell / Nez Riaz
What Is a Veneer?
Verywell / Nez Riaz
Dental veneersare wafer-thin, custom-made shells of tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of your teeth.
This is done to improve your appearance.
These can be referred to as porcelain veneers or composite veneers.
Of course, the cost of veneers can vary depending on where you live and your dentist’s experience.
To prepare your tooth for a veneer, the tooth surface will need to be reshaped.
Next, your dentist will make a model or impression of your tooth.
The model is then sent out to a laboratory.
In the meantime, temporary dental veneers can be used.
Your dentist will check the veneer on your tooth to examine its fit and color.
They’ll remove and trim the veneer to achieve the proper fit before permanently cementing it to your tooth.
The color of the veneer can be adjusted with the shade of cement being used.
Etching roughens the tooth to allow for a strong bonding process.
A special cement is applied to the veneer and placed on your tooth.
The final steps include removing any excess cement, checking your bite, and making any necessary adjustments.
Pros
There are multiple advantages when considering veneers.
Cons
While veneers have their advantages, there are some risks to consider.
What Is a Crown?
Adental crownis a tooth-shaped cap that’s placed over the entire tooth.
You’ll usually be required to visit the dentist two times to prepare a tooth for a crown.
The tooth receiving the crown is reshaped along the chewing surface and sides to make space for the crown.
The key in of crown being used will determine how much of your tooth will be reshaped or removed.
Sometimes, impressions are made with a digital scanner.
The impressions or scans are sent to a dental lab where the crown will be manufactured.
This process can take two to three weeks.
Of course, the cost of veneers can vary depending on where you live and your dentist’s experience.
Crowns can be covered by dental insurance when the procedure is necessary for the maintenance of good dental health.
Crowns
Generally, crowns can range from $800-$1,700 per crown.
Once again, the cost of veneers can vary depending on where you live and your dentist’s experience.
The recovery process after receiving veneers is fairly short.
Traditional porcelain veneers typically last 10 years.
Taking certain precautions can help double-check that you get the longest use out of them as possible.
Beyond that time, you may start to treat your crown as though it’s a natural tooth.
Veneers can typically be used when considering a cosmetic improvement, such as a chipped tooth.
Crowns should be considered when the tooth has experienced a lot of decay.
Keep in mind what you are looking to achieve long-term while also considering maintenance and cost.
It’s also very important to keep in mind how vital dental hygiene is to your well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Veneers and crowns each have their advantages and disadvantages.
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