Crowns Vs. Veneers: Key Differences

If you are like the millions of Americans who have chipped or cracked teeth, a tooth condition that causes the tooth to wear away, or are simply looking for a new and improved smile, restorative dentistry is what you need. 

Restorative dentistry helps to repair teeth that have been otherwise damaged and protects them and the gums from further damage and disease.  

If you have ever experienced a root canal, having a crown placed over your tooth is an example of restorative dentistry. 

Sometimes, however, you may not need a full crown to protect your tooth and give you your smile back.  

There are different types of restorative dentistry options, with crowns and veneers being just two of them. 

They are the most common types of restorative dentistry options, and many people use the two interchangeably, even though that isn’t the case at all.  Both are made with similar materials, like porcelain or composite resin, but that is about it! 

So if you’re in need of restorative dentistry and are trying to understand the difference between crowns vs. veneers, keep reading because we have the answer below! 

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, as we said above, are a common part of having a root canal. When you have experienced a problem with your tooth that causes bacteria to invade the inside of it and cause it to die, you will need to have a root canal completed.  Your dentist will remove the decaying parts of the tooth, being careful to keep as much as the healthy tooth in place. When it is completed, what is left of the tooth is vulnerable to being damaged again.  A crown, or protective cap, is placed over the tooth and cemented in place to create a permanent seal.  This crown looks and feels like a real tooth, and only you will know that it is there once the procedure is completed. 

Dental crowns can be used for other reasons as well, and the procedure for placing same-day crowns is as follows. Your dentist will take a mold or impression of the teeth you are covering. After a numbing agent is applied, they will grind down the tooth until it resembles a nub or point.  From there, they will cement the crown that matches the shape and color of the natural tooth in place.  

Once it is in place, they will file it until it feels comfortable.  

Veneers

Veneers are something you hear about all the time with celebrities and are deemed cosmetic dentistry but are available for anyone to receive as long as the dentist feels it is right for your situation.  Veneers are a shield or protective cover that goes over just the front of the tooth and not the entire tooth like a crown.  

When a veneer is placed, there is only a little reshaping of the tooth and filing of the enamel to help the cement adhere to the tooth surface. 

Veneers are a great option for the front sets of teeth to help cover any cracks, chips, or misshapen teeth.  Veneers give you a classic “perfect smile” look. 

Crowns Vs. Veneers: Which Option Is Right For You? 

When it comes to crowns vs. veneers, it is all about what is best for your teeth, oral health, and hygiene.  If it suits you, your dentist may even recommend both options! 

You may have a cracked front tooth that requires a veneer and a weakened tooth due to decay that needs a crown. You and your dentist will discuss your options and their recommendations at your bi-annual dentist appointment.  

In Need Of Restorative Dentistry? Contact Falcon Dental Today! 

If you have recently been experiencing pain or discomfort in your teeth or gums or have chipped or cracked a tooth, it is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible for a checkup and repair.  

Letting a tooth issue go without assistance from a dentist can lead to further problems for your oral health and overall health in general.  

If you live around the Falcon, Colorado area, we can assist you with all your general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry needs.  

We can also assist with adult and child orthodontics to help give you the smile you’ve always wanted.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and consultation with one of the dedicated members of our dental team!