Today, people have many options to restore the appearance and health of their smiles. So many, in fact, that things can get confusing really fast. Some of these procedures can look so similar that they are only separated by some easy-to-miss nuances.
However, the best type of treatment for you greatly depends on your oral health, and the issues you want to address. In this article, we’ll look at the differences between dental crowns and veneers and explore each in-depth so you can have a better understanding of which is best for you.
WHAT’S THE TREATMENT PROCESS LIKE?
At first glance, the treatment process for dental crowns and veneers can look really similar:
- Tooth preparation
- Taking a mold to create the prosthetic (crown or veneer)
- Fixing the prosthetic to your mouth
However, there is a key difference between them: dental crowns will cover the entire tooth, with a veneer bonded to the front of your natural teeth. The thickness of these prosthetics also differs.
This is because the two prosthetics aim to solve different issues. Dental crowns are a way to restore a badly damaged tooth. The dentist files the tooth to leave just healthy tissue following a cavity, for instance, and the crown is added on top and cemented to the natural tooth.
Veneers, on the other hand, are designed to address appearance problems in your teeth, such as discoloration, staining, or even gaps. The enamel of your tooth must be ground slightly to create a rougher surface for the veneer to properly bond, but the process doesn’t remove as much natural tooth as dental crowns.
In the end, it’s a matter of what type of damage you are dealing with, at which prosthetic is most suitable to address it.
WHAT IS THE FINAL LOOK FOR EACH?
Both veneers and dental crowns are custom-made to suit your overall tooth color and appearance. It can depend on the material used for them, but modern veneers and crowns are designed to blend into the mouth and not attract attention to them.
ARE THERE ANY DIFFERENCES IN THEIR AFTERCARE?
Dental crowns and veneers will require good oral hygiene to ensure the prosthetic has an extended lifespan. This can include:
- Brushing your teeth at least 2 times a day;
- Using floss to remove particles next to the prosthetics;
- Avoiding biting and chewing on hard foods which can chip or crack them.
Additionally, routine visits to the dentist can also help with dental crown or veneer maintenance.
BOOK YOUR SUMMERBROOK DENTAL APPOINTMENT TODAY
Still not sure if veneers or dental crowns are right for you? Summerbrook Dental is here to help you make the best decisions for your long-term dental health.
Schedule your first visit with Dr. Calvin Eastwood today to find out more about how we can restore the health and appearance of your smile!