Veneers vs Dental Crowns
Peoria, AZ
 When it comes to restoring the appearance and function of your teeth, both veneers and dental crowns are popular options. However, deciding between the two is challenging if you don't fully understand the difference between veneers and crowns, as well as the benefits and longevity of each.
Our dentists and staff at Pleasant Valley Dentistry in Peoria, AZ, can help you make the best decision for you.
Understanding the Difference Between Veneers and Crowns
Before diving into the benefits and procedures of each, it's essential to understand the fundamental difference between veneers and crowns. Both are used to improve the appearance of teeth, but they differ in how much of the tooth they cover and the types of dental issues they address.
Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. They are primarily used for cosmetic purposes, such as covering stains, chips, or minor misalignments. Veneers require minimal tooth preparation, making them a less invasive option.
Dental crowns, on the other hand, cover the entire tooth, encasing it like a cap. Crowns are typically made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal and are used to restore teeth that are significantly damaged, decayed, or weakened. Because crowns cover the entire tooth, they provide more structural support than veneers.
The Veneers Procedure
The veneers procedure usually involves two to three visits to the dentist. During the first visit, Dr. Repta or Dr. Tovar will examine your teeth and discuss your goals. We will determine if veneers are the right option for you and may take X-rays or impressions of your teeth.
In the second visit, we will prepare the teeth by removing a small amount of enamel from the front surface, usually about 0.5 millimeters. This is necessary to ensure the veneers fit properly and look natural. After preparation, an impression of your teeth is taken and sent to a dental lab where the veneers are custom-made.
Once the veneers are ready (typically in one to two weeks), you will return for placement. We will check the fit and color, making adjustments if necessary. The veneers are then bonded to your teeth using a special adhesive, and we may make final adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.
The Dental Crowns Procedure
The dental crowns procedure is slightly more involved than veneers because it covers the entire tooth. As with veneers, the first visit involves a thorough examination and discussion of your dental goals. We may take X-rays and impressions to assess the tooth's condition.
During the second visit, we will prepare the tooth by removing a significant portion of its structure to make room for the crown. This step is crucial for ensuring the crown fits snugly over the tooth. If the tooth is severely damaged or decayed, we may need to build up the core of the tooth before placing the crown.
After the tooth is prepared, an impression is taken and sent to a dental lab to create the custom crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth.
Once the permanent crown is ready, you'll return for the final placement. We will remove the temporary crown, check the fit and color of the permanent one, and cement it in place.
Benefits of Veneers
The benefits of veneers primarily revolve around their cosmetic appeal and minimally invasive nature:
| • |
Aesthetic Improvement: Veneers are ideal for correcting minor imperfections, such as stains, chips, or slight misalignments. They can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile with a natural-looking finish.
|
| • |
Less Tooth Reduction: Since only a small amount of enamel is removed, veneers are less invasive than crowns. This makes them a more conservative option for those with healthy teeth that require only minor cosmetic enhancements.
|
| • |
Stain Resistance: Porcelain veneers are highly resistant to staining, allowing you to enjoy a bright, white smile for years with proper care. |
Benefits of Dental Crowns
The benefits of dental crowns are more related to their strength and durability, as well as their ability to restore function:
| • |
Crowns provide comprehensive coverage, making them ideal for teeth that are heavily decayed, cracked, or weakened. They restore the tooth's shape, size, and function while preventing further damage.
|
| • |
Versatility: Crowns have a variety of uses, including protecting a tooth after a root canal, covering a large filling, or anchoring a dental bridge.
|
| • |
Durability: Dental crowns are designed to withstand the forces of biting and chewing, making them a long-lasting solution for restoring function to damaged teeth. |
Veneers Longevity vs. Dental Crowns Longevity
When considering veneers vs. dental crowns, it's important to understand the longevity of each option.
With proper care, veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. However, because they are thinner and cover only the front surface of the tooth, they are more susceptible to chipping or cracking if not properly maintained. Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding can help extend their lifespan.
Dental crowns are more durable than veneers and can last 15 to 20 years or longer with proper care. Their longevity depends on factors such as the material used (porcelain, ceramic, or metal), the location of the crown, and how well you maintain your oral hygiene. Crowns on molars, for instance, may experience more wear and tear due to the forces of chewing.
When to Choose Veneers
If your primary concern is improving the appearance of your teeth, veneers are an ideal option for addressing issues like discoloration, minor chips, and slight misalignments.
Veneers are best for patients with healthy teeth that require only surface-level improvements. Since the procedure is minimally invasive, it's a good choice for those looking to preserve as much of their natural tooth structure as possible.
When to Choose Dental Crowns
If your tooth is significantly damaged, decayed, or weakened, a crown is the best choice to restore its strength and functionality.Crowns are often used after root canal therapy or to cover a large filling. They are also the chosen solution for teeth that have been cracked or broken.
Schedule With Your Dentist in Peoria, AZ Today!
Understanding the difference between veneers and crowns, along with the benefits, procedures, and longevity of each, can help you make an informed decision that best suits your oral health and appearance.
Consult our specialists here at Pleasant Valley Dentistry to determine whether veneers or dental crowns are the right choice for you. Call us at 623-561-1470 today! |
