In the realm of cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers and dental crowns are popular choices for improving both the appearance and functionality of natural teeth. Dental veneers, whether made of porcelain or composite resin, are custom-made thin shells designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They are effective for issues like chipped teeth, discoloration or minor misalignments.
On the other hand, dental crowns encase the entire tooth, providing both aesthetic improvement and structural support. They are typically recommended for more extensive damage such as broken teeth or large fillings.
At Dental Designs Clinic, both veneers and crowns are crafted using digital technology. This begins with intraoral scanners that replace traditional molds, ensuring a more efficient and comfortable experience for patients (video above).
What are dental veneers?
A dental veneer is a thin layer of porcelain bonded to the front surface of a tooth to enhance its appearance. These veneers create the impression of healthier, more aesthetically pleasing teeth. Although veneers can be made from various materials, we prefer porcelain because it closely mimics the translucency and natural look of tooth enamel. Additionally, porcelain veneers are more durable and longer-lasting, providing a reliable solution for smile enhancement.
Before placing a veneer, we need to ensure that your tooth has enough enamel to support it. During the preparation process, we remove about 0.5mm of enamel from the surface of the tooth to be treated. This step is crucial as it provides space for the veneer and ensures a secure bond.
Find out more about Dental Veneers with Dental Designs today!
Unlike veneers, dental crowns cover the entire tooth, providing both protection and an enhanced appearance. Dental crowns are crafted from high-quality ceramics, which offer a natural, tooth-like look and ensure durability and strength. This makes crowns a reliable long-term solution for damaged or aesthetically compromised teeth.
The process of getting a dental crown is more invasive than that of veneers and may require more extensive trimming of the tooth. Additionally, if the tooth has cavities or decay, these areas must be thoroughly cleaned and treated before the crown is placed. This might involve removing decayed portions or repairing damaged areas to create a stable foundation for the crown.
Find out more about Dental Crowns with Dental Designs today!
| Dental Veneers | Dental Crowns | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | More for aesthetic purposes, not suitable if you have dental issues like tooth decay |
More for aesthetic and functional purposes, suitable if you have a very large cavity or crack, discolouration from old fillings or wish to protect your tooth after root canal treatment |
| Tooth Preparation | Requires minimal removal of natural tooth enamel (about 0.5 mm) to accommodate the thin veneer. | Necessitates more significant tooth preparation as it covers the entire tooth surface. |
| Application and Coverage | Applied to the front surface of teeth to improve appearance and may require periodic replacement. | Covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, offering structural reinforcement and longevity. |
| Durability | Can last for many years with proper care but may be more prone to chipping or cracking. | Tend to be more resilient and durable due to their thicker structure. |
| Material and Staining Resistance | Made from porcelain or composite resin. Composite veneers may stain over time. | Often made from porcelain, which is highly resistant to staining and maintains aesthetics well. |
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This will largely come down to the condition of your affected tooth. Generally, if the damage to natural tooth is more aesthetic without any underlying dental issues at hand, then veneers that look natural are a better option. However, if your tooth has damages like tooth decay, large cracks and cracked fillings that normal fillings cannot fix, then veneers may not be of help. Instead, a crown can cover the entire tooth’s surface, restoring the existing tooth's health and giving it more strength.
When considering dental veneers and crowns, patients should consult with their dentist to determine the most suitable option based on their specific dental needs and treatment goals. Ultimately, both veneers and crowns offer transformative solutions for achieving a brand-new smile and enhancing overall dental health and confidence.
If you think you are likely to have dental issues or more age-related wear to your teeth down the road, then perhaps it’s better to invest in a crown now to save you more dental work in future. But again, it comes down to several factors including dental insurance and budget concerns.
If you are unsure whether to get veneers or crowns, feel sure to reach out to us and our dentists are happy to help. Click here to learn more about Dental Veneers and Dental Crowns.