Veneers vs Crowns: Which One is Right for You?

In dental restoration, crowns and veneers are the two best options with a high success rate. However, both employ different procedures to fix dental imperfections. Let’s have a quick overview of veneers vs crowns.

Veneers are often used for aesthetic purposes and cover only the front part of the tooth. Conversely, crowns are known for their strength and durability and are used to restore damaged or decayed teeth.

As individuals seek solutions to ever-increasing dental limitations, understanding the nuances between these two treatments becomes crucial. But don’t worry; we will address the difference between veneers vs crowns in this guide for a better idea.

Continue reading to find out.

Veneers vs Crowns: An Ultimate Comparision

Are you stuck while deciding which dental treatment would better fit you? Well, not anymore; we will discuss everything you need to know about veneers vs. caps. It will not only make you comprehend the nitty-gritty of these dental implant techniques but also help you make an informed decision before your next dental visit.

Veneers Vs Crowns: Definition and Types

Veneers

Veneers represent a cosmetic dentistry solution designed to enhance the appearance of teeth. It covers the front surface with thin porcelain or composite resin shells. These custom-made shells are meticulously crafted to align with the natural color and shape of the patient’s teeth, offering a seamless integration with the existing dental structure. 

With gentle care, veneers can last almost 10 to 15 years, ensuring a beautiful smile.

Types

Generally, two main types of veneers are as follows:

  1. Porcelain Veneers
  2. Composite Resin Veneers

Crowns

A dental crown is a restorative dental prosthesis that encases the entire visible part of a tooth, extending above the gum line. This comprehensive coverage provides strength, protection, and aesthetic improvement to a compromised tooth. The average life span of crowns ranges from 5 to 15 years based on optimal care.

Types

Crowns can extend further into two major types:

  1. Porcelain Crowns
  2. Metal Crowns

Veneers vs Crowns: Procedure

Veneers

The journey to a rejuvenated smile through veneers starts with a thorough consultation with a cosmetic dentist. During this initial phase, the dentist assesses the patient’s oral health, discusses aesthetic goals, and determines the suitability of veneers. 

Once the decision is made, the dentist embarks on the preparation phase, which involves minimal tooth reduction, usually around 0.5mm of enamel, to create space for the veneers. Impressions of the prepared teeth are then carefully taken, serving as the blueprint for fabricating custom veneers. 

While awaiting the veneers’ creation, patients may wear temporary masks to protect the prepared teeth. Once the veneers are ready, the dentist ensures a precise fit, making any necessary adjustments before bonding them permanently to the teeth using a strong dental adhesive. The result is a transformed, natural-looking smile that conceals imperfections and enhances overall aesthetics.

Crowns

In contrast, the procedure for dental crowns is a more encompassing process aimed at providing structural reinforcement and cosmetic improvement for compromised teeth. Similarly, the journey commences with an in-depth consultation, during which the dentist evaluates the extent of damage or decay and discusses available options.

 

To prepare the tooth for a crown, a more substantial amount of enamel is removed compared to veneers, allowing the crown to fit securely without altering the bite. Impressions are then taken, which serve as the basis for crafting a custom crown fabricated from materials like porcelain or metal alloys. 

 

Patients may receive a temporary crown while awaiting the creation of a permanent one. During the final appointment, the dentist ensures the crown’s fit and appearance before permanently bonding it to the tooth using dental cement. At last, you observe the strengthened and aesthetically enhanced tooth that seamlessly integrates with the natural dentition.

Veneers Vs Crowns: Decision-Making Factors

If you want a bright smile with veneers, you must be wondering about how to take care of veneers. Well, here are some essential steps that you can add to your daily routine for veneer maintenance and save yourself from any hassle:

Veneers

  • Cosmetic Goals

Veneers are primarily chosen for cosmetic enhancements, addressing discoloration, minor misalignments, and chipped or worn teeth. Choosing veneers often depends on the desire for a brighter, more aesthetically pleasing smile.

  • Tooth Preservation

Individuals seeking minimal alteration to their natural teeth may find veneers appealing. With a minimal tooth reduction (around 0.5mm) preparation process, veneers offer a conservative option for those concerned about preserving their natural tooth structure.

  • Customization Preferences

The extensive customization options available with veneers, particularly porcelain veneers, allow individuals to tailor the surface’s color, shape, and size. It helps to achieve a uniquely personalized and natural-looking outcome.

Crowns

  • Extent of Tooth Damage

Dental crowns are often chosen when teeth have extensive damage, such as large cavities, fractures, or significant decay. The decision hinges on the need for structural reinforcement and protection.

  • Restorative Requirements

Crowns are versatile in their application, serving both restorative and cosmetic purposes. They are employed to strengthen weakened teeth, restore functionality, and improve the overall appearance of compromised teeth.

  • Versatility in Tooth Placement

Porcelain crowns, in particular, offer versatility in their application, making them suitable for both front and back teeth. This flexibility contributes to their widespread use in various areas of the mouth.

Veneers Vs Crowns: Cost

The price of veneers can depend on material choice and the location of the dental practice. Generally, porcelain veneer prices start from $800 and exceed up to $2,500, while composite veneers range between $500 and $1,500 per tooth.

On the other hand, porcelain crowns range between $800 to $3,000 per tooth, while metal crowns may have a lower average cost, between $500 to $1,500 per tooth. Conditions like material type, location of the tooth in the mouth, and complexity of the process also influence it.

Dental insurance usually covers crown costs, especially when necessary for restorative purposes. However, as a cosmetic procedure, insurance does not usually compensate veneers.

Conclusion

In short, the decision between veneers vs crowns depends on the intensity of your dental decay. If you have a chipped tooth or discolored one, these can easily be fixed through veneers. However, conditions like extensive tooth decay can be controlled by crowns, giving you a radiant smile.

Considering our guide, if you have decided on the most suitable treatment, then Hesed Dental is the best place for you. We are the veneers expert in NJ, providing professional dental restoration services with precision. Our expert staff also ensures you get the best porcelain veneers in NJ installed at the most reasonable prices.

With our in-house veneers lab, we ensure that your customized smile solution is precisely crafted according to your teeth while keeping the treatment process short. 

Contact us to book a consultation, and we’ll be happy to hear your voice.