The Key Differences Between Dental Crowns And Veneers

Dental crowns and veneers are similar in that they improve your smile and the function of your teeth. Dentists use these fixtures to restore damage to your teeth, including cracks, chips, discolouration, decay, and tooth loss.

Most crowns and veneers appear like natural teeth, except for metallic units. You can brush them like regular teeth, and they are inconspicuous.

Despite the similarities, these two dental correction fixtures have their disparities. So, what are the key differences between dental crowns and veneers? Read on to discover.

Top Difference between Dental Crowns And Veneers

1. Design and Fitting

The most striking difference between crowns and veneers is their design. A veneer is a very thin (less than one millimetre) layer of porcelain or composite gel that a dentist bonds in front of an existing tooth. On the flip side, a crown is thicker (two millimetres) and covers the entire tooth.

Regarding fitting, the installation of veneers isn’t as invasive as fixing dental crowns. It involves the grinding of the enamel to provide a rough surface for the bonding of the veneer.

Contrarily, the dentist has to prepare your jaw extensively if you want a dental crown. The process might involve a root canal, depending on the extent of the damage. Also, the dentist will design the crown to resemble the shape of your natural tooth. For this reason, you might wear a temporary crown for up to three weeks as you wait for a permanent one to be specially made.

2. Purpose

The primary reason for fixing veneers is to improve the appearance of the patient’s smile. This explains while they’re very thin and applied on the front side of teeth. They are ideal for correcting tooth discolouration, cracked teeth, and chipped teeth.

Although they’re as beautiful as veneers, dental crowns are also useful for tooth restoration. This is the best remedy if you have extensive tooth decay or even missing teeth.

3. Durability

Dental crowns last much longer than veneers. If you take proper care of crowns, such as regular brushing and flossing and attend frequent dental appointments, they can last for a lifetime.

The lifespan of a veneer, however, depends on its material. Composite veneers, made by hardening thin layers of gel using light, can last for only five years, whereas porcelain veneers will last for up to 15.

4. Cost

Veneers are cheaper than crowns. Regarding material, porcelain and ceramics cost more than metallic crowns.

Your insurance company might cover the cost of installing dental crowns, but unfortunately, veneers are exempt from this offer because they are primarily a cosmetic dentistry procedure.

5. Which is the Better Choice?

Despite improving aesthetics, you can’t use veneers and crowns interchangeably. It’s best to follow your dentist’s advice before getting any of these fixtures.

Generally, dental crowns are used on people with extensive tooth damage. This is because crowns provide more protection against further damage while restoring functionality. On the other hand, veneers only improve the appearance of your smile, making them ideal for correcting minor defects such as cracks, chips, and discolouration.

Wrapping Up

Veneers and crowns help improve appearance and restore tooth functionality. However, it’s essential to take care of them as you would for your natural teeth. Ensure that you brush them at least twice daily and visit the dentist at least once every six months.

It’s also worth noting that these fixtures have potential side effects. First, they can cause discomfort and increase tooth sensitivity. You might also be allergic to the material used in their construction. Lastly, you’ll need to replace them entirely if they crack or get chipped.

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