If you are trying to establish whether veneers vs crowns will address your dental issue, you would consider whether your primary need is for an aesthetic improvement or to address a structural issue. Dental veneers are used primarily to address cosmetic needs while dental crowns are used to restore function to damaged teeth. Let’s take a look at when you would need to draw on cosmetic dentistry or have a dental restoration.
What Are Dental Veneers?
Veneers are crafted from porcelain as thin shells that are placed over a tooth. They are used primarily for cosmetic improvements and can improve the size and shape of your teeth. They are also useful for discoloured teeth that do not respond to whitening treatments. Veneers improve the appearance of teeth that are cracked, chipped, misshapen or too small.
Porcelain veneers are highly sought after in cosmetic dentistry as they reflect the light in the same way as your natural teeth and can make a very noticeable difference to the quality of your smile.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that is used when a large piece of your tooth is damaged or missing. Also known as dental caps, crowns are fitted over your tooth to restore function. If your tooth has been weakened or damaged by decay a dental crown can restore it to its former function so you can bite and chew with the same degree of force.
Veneers Vs Crowns: What Are The Differences?
When considering the question of veneers vs crowns, there are some fundamental differences when evaluating your options:
- Veneers are only around 1mm in thickness while crowns are approximately 2mm thick.
- Crowns have restorative value while veneers are used primarily for cosmetic improvement.
- A crown can be made from porcelain, metal or porcelain fused to metal. Veneers are generally made from porcelain or composite resin.
Veneers Vs Crowns: How Do The Procedures Differ?
Both veneers and crown procedures are done under local anaesthetic. For dental veneers you can expect more than one visit to your dentist. At the first visit some of your dental enamel will be removed so that the veneers fit well into your mouth. Then an impression will be taken of your teeth. The impression will be sent away for the veneers to be crafted in a dental laboratory. Once it is ready you will return for your fitting.
If you’re having a crown, your dentist will need to prepare your damaged tooth, which may involve the removal of dental decay. The tooth will also need to be filed down and shaped to accommodate the crown, before the crown is fitted. This procedure will be completed in one session in order to restore your tooth’s function.
If you’re still unsure about whether veneers vs crowns will address your dental issue it’s time to make an appointment. Please contact us: (02) 6188 7293.
