Are you seeking a way to enhance your smile? Do you wish your teeth were brighter and more even? If so, consider getting dental veneers or crowns. But how do these two options compare? And how can you choose the best one for your needs?
Dental Veneers
These are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin covering your teeth’s front surface. They can transform the look of your teeth by changing their color, shape, size, or length. Dentists custom-make dental veneers to fit your teeth and match your natural smile. They bond them to your teeth with a unique adhesive. Veneers can last up to 15 years with proper care.
Dental Crowns
These are caps that cover the entire visible part of your tooth. They can restore the function and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth. Dental crowns can consist of metal, porcelain, ceramic, or a mix of these materials. Dentists cement them to your tooth or implant. They can last for up to 20 years with proper care.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Veneers?
Dental veneers have many benefits, such as:
- They can improve the look of your smile by hiding stains, chips, cracks, gaps, or misshapen teeth
- They can resist stains better than natural teeth or composite resin veneers
- They are customizable to suit your goals and preferences
- They require less tooth preparation than crowns, which means less drilling and enamel removal
What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns have many benefits, such as:
- They can restore the strength and function of damaged or decayed teeth
- They can protect your teeth from further damage or infection
- They can support other dental treatments like bridges, implants, or root canals
- They can match or enhance the color and shape of your natural teeth
How to Choose Between Dental Veneers and Crowns
Several factors will influence your decision to pick between dental veneers and crowns, such as:
The State of Your Teeth
Veneers suit you better if your teeth are healthy and only require cosmetic enhancement. Crowns may serve you better if your teeth are badly damaged or decayed and require structural reinforcement.
Cost
Veneers and crowns have different costs depending on the material, the number of teeth involved, and the dentist’s fees. Generally speaking, veneers are more expensive than crowns per tooth. However, weighing each option’s long-term benefits and durability would be best.
Maintenance
Both veneers and crowns require good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to maintain quality and appearance. However, veneers might need more care and attention than crowns because they are more prone to chipping or cracking. You should avoid biting hard foods or objects with veneers.
Conclusion
Dental veneers and crowns can effectively improve your smile and oral health. However, they offer different pros and cons to weigh before choosing. The best way to discover which option suits you best is to talk to your dentist. They can examine your teeth, discuss your goals and expectations, and recommend the most suitable treatment.
For more information on dental veneers and crowns, visit Progressive Dental & Associates at our Matteson, Illinois office. Call 708-980-0110 to schedule an appointment today.
