Porcelain Veneers or Dental Crowns: Which Is Right for Your Smile?

Do you struggle when it comes to making decisions? Maybe choosing dinner every night or picking something to binge watch on Netflix is quite the challenge for you. If these decisions don’t come easily, how are you supposed to decide what to do when it comes to your oral health and seeking treatment options for your teeth? Here’s an in-depth look at porcelain veneers and dental crowns, two common treatment options with many applications.

Porcelain Veneers

A veneer is an extremely thin covering made of special dental porcelain that can be bonded to the surface of your teeth. Think of it like a special mask that can conceal a tooth’s aesthetic issues, including chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration.

Veneers are designed to look natural and great for the long run. Only about half a millimeter of enamel needs to be removed from the tooth to create room for a veneer, too—which is next to nothing!

However, veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth, meaning the rest of it is susceptible to decay and breakage. This also means that they’re really only ideal for minor aesthetic concerns, rather than actually repairing damaged teeth.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, usually made of porcelain or ceramic material, are hollowed-out caps that fit over the top of your teeth, hence the name! Unlike veneers, crowns cover every part of the tooth that has emerged past the gumline.

Crowns can restore a tooth’s functionality in addition to its appearance, while also shielding it from future decay and damage. They are more durable than veneers and can also offer structural support to the tooth.

Unfortunately, more enamel must be removed to prepare a tooth for a crown. Patients also tend to experience more discomfort after the procedure.

Picking The Right Option for Your Smile

Both crowns and veneers are great options for transforming the appearance of your compromise teeth, but ultimately your dentist will be able to decide which, if either, is the correct choice for you. Keep in mind that veneers are optimal for fixing the way your teeth look, while crowns are better if your teeth have actually sustained damage.

In terms of durability, both options can withstand the force of your bite and usually last around 15 or so years assuming you take proper care of them. It’s also important to note that crowns are typically covered by insurance, as they are more for restorative purposes than cosmetic; this means you might end up paying less for crowns than veneers, if cost is a concern!

Both crowns and veneers can do a lot for your smile—visit your dentist to determine which is right for you.

About the Author

Infinite Smiles Dentistry proudly serves the dental needs of patients and families in the Owasso area under the leadership of Dr. Mark Gaches. Dr. Gaches received his dental doctorate from the University of Southern California and is a member of many professional organizations including the American Dental Association and is also currently pursuing a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. If you have any questions about the article or would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gaches, feel free to reach out through his website or by phone: (918) 928-2383.