Dental Crowns vs. Veneers

Dr. Snyder offers several options for restoring your smile and improving the appearance and function of your teeth. Two popular options are dental crowns and bridges. Both can improve your smile, but each has distinctive features you should consider before choosing one or the other.

What is the Difference Between Veneers and Crowns?

Veneers and crowns are both used to improve the appearance of teeth, but they serve different purposes and are applied differently.

Porcelain veneers are thin shells that cover the front surface of a tooth. They are primarily used for cosmetic purposes, such as correcting discoloration, minor chips, or slight misalignments. Veneers require minimal removal of the tooth’s enamel, which is bonded directly to the tooth.

Dental Crowns act as caps over the entire exposed portion of the tooth, not just the front. They are usually used to restore a tooth that has been significantly damaged by decay, fracture, or after a root canal treatment. The tooth must be reshaped to accommodate the crown, which provides strength and protection.

Is It Better to Get Veneers or Crowns?

When deciding between veneers and crowns, it’s crucial to consider your specific goals, the condition of your teeth, and your budget. Each option has its advantages, and the best choice for you will depend on these factors.

Veneers are generally better for making cosmetic improvements. If your teeth are healthy but you’re unhappy with their color, shape, or alignment, veneers can provide a quick and effective solution. They are less invasive and preserve more of the natural tooth structure.

Crowns are more appropriate if your tooth is weakened or damaged. They offer more structural support and protection, making them ideal for teeth with large fillings, fractures, or those who have undergone root canal treatment. Crowns are also recommended if the tooth has significant decay that a veneer can’t address.

Which Last Longer: Veneers or Crowns?

Crowns beat out veneers by several years for most patients. You can expect porcelain veneers to last 7 to 15 years, depending on the material used and how well you care for them. However, crowns usually last up to 20 years, and sometimes more, with proper care. Because crowns cover the entire tooth, they offer greater durability and resistance to wear and tear compared to veneers. The lifespan of both veneers and crowns can be extended with good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and avoiding habits that can damage them, such as biting hard objects.

Are Veneers or Crowns More Natural Looking?

When expertly crafted, both veneers and crowns can look incredibly natural, providing you with a beautiful smile that looks and feels like your own.

Veneers are often considered more natural-looking for front teeth because they are thin and can be customized to match the translucency and color of natural teeth. Porcelain veneers are particularly effective at mimicking the natural luster of enamel.

Crowns can also look natural, especially made from porcelain or ceramic materials. However, because they cover the entire tooth, it is crucial that you choose an experienced dentist like Dr. Snyder, who is experienced at carefully sculpting the crown for a precision fit and natural-looking contours.

Crowns are less likely to come loose or fall off than veneers. If you bite your fingernails, use your teeth to open packages, crunch ice, or chew on pens or other objects, you risk popping off your veneers and having them replaced. Although this is still possible with a crown, it is far less likely.

The choice between veneers and crowns for a natural appearance often depends on the skill of the dentist and the quality of the materials used. When done well, both options can provide a beautiful, natural-looking result.

Choosing between dental crowns and bridges depends on your dental needs and aesthetic goals. Veneers are ideal for cosmetic enhancements and preserving natural tooth structure, while crowns offer greater durability and protection for damaged teeth. Both can achieve a natural look, but crowns generally last longer and are less likely to come loose or be lost prematurely.

Dr. Snyder places veneers and crowns, evaluating each patient’s needs to determine the best option. If you are interested in porcelain veneers or dental crowns, please contact our office at Brian H. Snyder, D.D.S. Phone Number 954-753-4101 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Snyder.