Your Island Dental dentist has told you that you need to get some work done. It’s not that you need to replace your tooth and a filling isn’t going to solve the problem you have. The options presented to you are either a veneer or a crown but what are the differences between the two?
Crowns and veneers are both considered dental restoration procedures. They can help to improve the appearance and function of your teeth but a veneer covers the front of your tooth and a crown covers your entire tooth.
Veneers
- Root canal treatment
- Stains from the use of tetracycline or other medications
- Fluoride use
- Providing a very natural appearance
- They are tolerated well by your mouth
- They are stain-resistant
- Your surrounding teeth may appear whiter
- They cannot be removed
- Your teeth may become more sensitive
- Once it’s placed, the color of the veneer cannot be changed
- While rare, veneers can fall off
- You can still experience decay in your tooth
- If you clench or grind your teeth, you cause your veneers to crack or chip
Crowns
- Protecting a weakened tooth from breaking
- Covering a tooth that has a large filling
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering a dental implant
- Covering a misshapen or badly discolored tooth
- They can last up to 15 years depending on the care they are provided
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Potential to chip, specifically porcelain crowns
- A crown can become loose
- An allergic reaction, while rare, to the metal in the crown
In Conclusion
Veneers are used primarily for appearance and function. They do not improve the function of your teeth if they are unable to be repaired. Crowns can help with the appearance of your teeth but they also protect your teeth when protection is needed.
If your tooth has a large filling, is heavily damaged, worn or cracked, or has had a root canal, your Island Dental dentist may suggest a crown. If your tooth is in good condition and your restoration is specifically designed for cosmetic purposes, a veneer may be the best solution.
Regardless, veneers and crowns will improve the appearance of your teeth. Your smile will be improved and your self-image will improve too.
If you would like to discuss a veneer or crown with an Island Dental dentist, please contact us to schedule an appointment, or you can call us at 516-565-6565. The dentists at Island Dental Associates will discuss your dental history and your concerns with you and explain treatment options so you can make an informed decision.