Veneers & Crowns: What's the Difference

When it comes to restoring a tooth that has been damaged for various reasons, two of the most commonly used treatment methods are veneers and crowns.

Although they can be considered quite similar, they have many characteristics that differentiate them from each other.
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Veneers

Veneers are one of the most used cosmetic dentistry procedures by dentists around the world.

These thin layers of material, once placed on a tooth, can drastically change its appearance in a positive way.

They are used to treat a variety of dental problems, such as:

• To restore the shape of the teeth;
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• To hide the stains of a tooth;
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• To cover a tooth that has been broken;
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• To eliminate crowding of teeth. 
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Dental Crowns

When a tooth is cracked or chipped, a dental crown can help restore its original shape.

A tooth that has been covered with a dental crown is protected from future trauma, while it looks normal and functions normally.

This method of treatment is ideal for preserving natural teeth as much as possible.
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What Is the Difference?

Here's what differentiates the two options:

1. While a veneer covers only the front surface of a tooth, a dental crown covers the entire tooth.
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2. A natural tooth is needed to implant a veneer. On the other hand, a dental crown can be placed over a dental implant and function like a normal tooth.
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3. Veneers are usually placed on the teeth in front of the mouth (incisors and canines.) Dental crowns are usually placed on the teeth in the back of the mouth (molars and premolars.)
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4. The price for veneers is radically lower than the price for dental crowns.
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5. The materials from which dental crowns can be made are much more varied than those from which veneers can be made.
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6. The main role of dental crowns is that of restorative dentistry, and the improvement of appearance is a secondary role. The main role of veneers is that of cosmetic dentistry, and the role of restoring functionality is only a secondary one.
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How Do I Know What's the Right Option for Me?

You may need a dental crown if you have a tooth that has the following conditions:

• Large filling
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• Root canal
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• Cracks

But if your teeth are intact, and you just want to improve their appearance, veneers would be the best option for you.
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Questions to ask dr. Mariam Barikbin

To find out more useful information or to ask the opinion of an expert on what might be the best method of treatment for you, do not forget that you can always ask any questions to dr. Mariam Barikbin.

A list of helpful questions you might ask is as follows:

• Are there other valid treatment options?
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• What is the lifespan of a veneer or a dental crown?
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• How should I take care of new veneers or dental crowns?
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• Is a mouth guard required?

Whichever treatment method you choose, both veneers and dental crowns are an effective way to improve the appearance of your smile and maintain its functionality for a long time.

If you want to be part of the Ortega Family Dental and enjoy the quality services offered by Dr. Mariam Barikbin, contact us today.