Should I Get Dental Crowns or Veneers?

Dental crowns and veneers are popular treatment options for people who have cracked a tooth, want to make cosmetic changes to their teeth, or are looking to step up their smiles. Although both of these procedures can positively influence the appearance of a tooth, they are two different solutions that potential patients should weigh carefully.

Key differences between dental crowns and veneers

Dental crowns are used to cover an entire tooth. This means that every part of the tooth above the gum line is encased in porcelain, which helps strengthen the tooth and improve its appearance.

Like the name would suggest, veneers only cover the front side of a tooth. This porcelain front allows for changes in the color and shape of the tooth.

When deciding whether to opt for dental crowns or veneers, there are a few key factors to keep in mind:

The health of the teeth

Veneers are typically placed on teeth that are healthy and strong. Porcelain veneers tend to be weak and do not strengthen or otherwise alter the integrity of a tooth. Patients who have generally healthy teeth who are seeking a change in color, shape or alignment should consider porcelain veneers.

Crowns, on the other hand, are helpful for protecting teeth that are cracked or otherwise damaged. While crowns can still adjust the shape and color of a tooth, they are also able to strengthen and rebuild teeth that are severely decayed or broken. If a tooth is unhealthy, a crown is a better solution than a veneer.

The purpose of the procedure

Patients should consider the purpose for which they are considering either procedure, as well as the health of their teeth when making a decision between dental crowns and veneers.

For teeth that are pretty strong and only require slight cosmetic changes, veneers are probably best. Veneers are a good solution for issues that are strictly aesthetic in nature.

For broken teeth that need support or restoration, crowns are a better option. A dental crown will not only improve the way a tooth looks, but it will also rebuild the structure of a tooth and allow patients to use the tooth the way they would naturally.

If there are no underlying issues or problems with a patient’s teeth, veneers are a good treatment option. However, if a tooth is in desperate need of repair or protection, patients should choose a dental crown.

The amount of tooth reduction

Veneers require less tooth reduction than dental crowns. In fact, in some situations, no trimming is needed at all. Patients who have minor cosmetic issues to fix should probably opt for a procedure that does not require much tooth reduction.

According to Hawthorne East Dental, placing a crown requires anywhere from 63% to 76% of the tooth to be trimmed. If a tooth is severely damaged, this tooth reduction can help protect the healthy parts of the tooth that remain. However, this is not ideal if the tooth is relatively healthy.

Choosing the right dental procedure

In order to choose the dental procedure that will work best for their own unique needs, patients should consider the purpose of the procedure, the health of their teeth, and the amount of enamel trimming that will be involved.

A dentist can help provide more information and make sure patients understand the difference between veneers and dental crowns before they make a decision.

Request an appointment here: http://www.hendersonfamilydentistry.com or call Henderson Family Dentistry at (903) 657-3139 for an appointment in our Henderson office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Google: Read our Yelp reviews.

Related Posts

5 FAQs About Dental Implants

Getting dental implants is a major decision. It is an invasive procedure that places titanium rods in your jawbone. The healing time will take months, but the result will be worth the wait. Understanding the process will allow you to prepare well for your procedure. Here are some FAQs about dental implants that you can…

Exploring Different Types Of Dental Implants And Their Benefits

Dental implants are lasting and stable dental restorations. Research shows that many people prefer implants to removable dentures because of their many benefits. Knowing how implants are better dental replacements can motivate you to come in for a consultation. Here are the benefits of having dental implants as replacements for your missing teeth.Tooth loss results…

The Potential Risks Of Getting Dental Implants

For many individuals with missing teeth, dental implants are an effective way to restore the appearance and function of their smile. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with getting dental implants. While these risks are relatively rare, it is important for patients to be aware of them before undergoing…

How To Get Approved For Dental Implants

The dental implant process is lengthy and intricate. Therefore, patients must receive a thorough examination before embarking on the dental implant process. The dentist will check for abnormalities, sufficient amounts of healthy gum tissue and jawbone, and specific medical or lifestyle concerns. Fortunately, if any of these issues are present, some services can improve the…