These days there’s a fix for any kind of dental issue you can think of and probably some that you can’t. You may have heard of veneers and dental crowns but would they be suitable for your specific problem? Let’s find out more about these dental solutions and work out whether veneers or crowns are the best answer.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a protective cap that’s placed over a damaged tooth and cemented into place. It looks like a normal tooth and functions in the same way but is usually made of ceramic or porcelain, although they can also be made of metal or a metal amalgam.
With good care, dental crowns are long lasting and durable. You can avoid excess wear on them by stopping things like chewing your fingernails, crunching down on hard things like ice and by using a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night.
Crowns are a great option to restore the appearance and strength of a decayed or broken tooth. They can also be used to cover discolored or misshapen teeth. The crowned tooth is still susceptible to bacteria and decay, though, so don’t forget to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Discovery Dental Group in Missoula, MT can create same-day ceramic crowns for patients, making the process a lot more convenient.
What Are Veneers?
Dental veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite that are fixed to the front surface of a tooth to make it look perfect. They are a common fix for many cosmetic issues such as discolored, crooked, gappy or chipped teeth.
Veneers can last for between 10 and 15 years and you can keep them in good shape by avoiding biting directly into things (use your back teeth), maintaining a good oral healthcare routine and not using any whitening products on your teeth as this can damage the surface of the veneer. Porcelain veneers are quite stain resistant but try to cut back on dark, staining food and drink such as black coffee, red wine, tomato sauces and dark berries.
While veneers are quite simple to apply, your oral health needs to be at a good level before they’re added. This is because they don’t offer protection to teeth, they just provide a more aesthetically pleasing look. If you have gum disease or cavities, you may not be a candidate for veneers until your oral health has improved. You also need enough enamel on your teeth to hold the veneer in place.
Are Veneers Better Than Crowns?
YES if:
- You are looking for a cosmetic solution to misshapen, discolored or crooked teeth
- You have a chipped or broken tooth at the front of your mouth that is otherwise healthy
NO if:
- You need a extensive restoration or replacement of a tooth
- The affected teeth are at the back of your mouth
- Your oral health is poor
Are Crowns Better Than Veneers?
YES if:
- You need restorative dental work to protect or replace a tooth
- You have a damaged or decayed tooth at the back of your mouth
NO if:
- You want a more uniform, whiter or more perfect looking teeth
- Your teeth and oral health are in good shape but you just want a cosmetic improvement
What Else Do I Need to Know About Veneers or Crowns?
There are some circumstances where you will have the option of choosing between a crown or a dental veneer. In these cases, your dentist will be able to advise which will be the most effective treatment. In general, crowns are used to protect and repair damaged or decayed teeth and veneers are used to improve the look of a tooth. If you’re in Missoula, MT, and want to find out more about your options to improve the look of your smile, call Discovery Dental Group for the latest in dental technology.