Porcelain Veneers vs Dental Crowns: Which Is Better for Me?
When a tooth is damaged or flawed in some way, dentists have many options to address the problem. Our cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice serving Bismarck, ND offers both porcelain veneers and dental crowns for dental problems, each of which is effective in its own way.
Many patients wonder how porcelain veneers compare to dental crowns and vice versa. Let’s see how each of these dental treatment options works and discuss which might be the right option for you.
About Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that are used to cover the fronts of a person’s teeth. These shells are semi-translucent, meaning that light partially passes through them much like your natural tooth structure. Thanks to porcelain veneers, you’ll be able to smile with renewed confidence.
The results are so convincing that few will notice that you have porcelain veneers in place. Whether up close or at a distance, in natural light or artificial light, porcelain veneers look like your natural teeth.
Ideal Uses for Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are best for situations in which damage, stains, or misalignment of the teeth is predominantly cosmetic in nature. That means the tooth itself is still healthy and relatively undamaged, but the surface of the tooth is cosmetically flawed.
Because porcelain veneers are so versatile, they have earned the nickname “instant orthodontics.” A smile makeover with veneers may make it seem like you’ve undergone orthodontic care even though that is not the case.
About Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are caps that fit over a tooth that has been severely damaged or decayed. The crown fits snugly over the healthy tooth structure, protecting the tooth from further damage and restoring a person’s ability to bite and chew normally.
Dental crowns come in tooth-colored and metal forms. The right kind of crown to use for your situation will depend on the location of the damaged tooth and the discretion of your dentist. With that said, metal crowns tend to be most ideal for the molars, while tooth-colored crowns more ideal for your most prominent/visible teeth.
Ideal Uses for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are most ideal when treating major dental health issues caused by tooth damage, tooth decay, or tooth misalignment. This is when the structure and strength of a tooth is at risk of further compromise. A crown can literally save the remaining structure of a tooth from extraction.
Alternatives to Consider
While porcelain veneers and dental crowns are excellent for many patients, there are additional options to consider for treatment. For instance, dental bonding may be better for patients who suffer from aesthetic hairline cracks on a tooth that do not require a veneer. For tooth damage that’s severe but doesn’t need a crown, inlays or inlays may be used instead.
Determining the Right Option for You
During the consultation process, your dentist can determine the right restoration or cosmetic treatment for your needs. X-rays and other diagnostic testing will be performed to fully assess your needs and how they can best be met.
Learn More About Your Dental Care Options
For more information about porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and your many other options for enhancing your smile, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dental care center. The team at Heringer Dentistry LLC looks forward to your visit and discussing these matters with you in greater detail.
