What are the differences between dental crowns and Veneers?

Restorative cosmetic dentistry provides various solutions to dental issues such as damaged and broken teeth. Dental problems can cause pain and discomfort. Cosmetic dentistry can provide solutions to restore your smile and oral health. This blog will discuss the differences between dental crowns and veneers.

What Are Dental Crowns and Bridges?

Dental Crowns:

Dental crowns are restorative dentistry custom-made to cover damaged or weakened teeth. They are also called tooth-shaped caps and reassemble your natural teeth. They maintain aesthetics and smile since they resemble natural teeth in shape, size, and colour.

They are an excellent option for teeth compromised by decay, fractures, or extensive fillings. Dental crowns provide strength and protection. 

Dental Veneer:

Dental Veneers are a cosmetic dentistry option that covers the tooth’s front surface. They are mainly used to mask imperfections such as staining, chips, gaps, and minor misalignments. Veneers are shells placed on the front surface of your teeth and are made of porcelain and composite resin. They are also custom-made. 

Benefits of Dental Crowns 

Restoration of Functionality: Dental crowns and bridges restore your ability to chew and speak properly. This improved the overall quality of life without discomfort. 

Enhanced Aesthetics: These restorations are carefully crafted to closely resemble the colour and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring that your smile remains beautiful and seamless.

Protection of Weak Teeth: Dental Crowns add a protective layer to teeth that have undergone extensive dental work or have weakened due to decay or fractures.

Benefits of Dental Veneers 

Minimal tooth preparation: Veneers require only the removal of a thin layer of enamel.

Cosmetic improvements: They are a perfect option for enhancing the appearance of your smile.

Mask discoloration: They are good at hiding intrinsic stains that teeth whitening cannot address.

Provide a natural look: They mimic the appearance of natural teeth and provide realistic results.  The Dental Crowns Procedure.

Dental Crowns Procedure:

Assessment and Preparation: The first appointment is the assessment of the affected tooth. This will determine if the dental crown is needed. Our Maple Ridge dentist will prepare your tooth by removing the decayed and damaged portion and reshaping the tooth to fit the crown. The dentists will also take an impression of the tooth to create a custom crown.

Placement: The custom crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory, which usually takes two weeks. In the meantime, a temporary crown protects the prepared till the permanent crown is placed onto the tooth, restoring its function and appearance.

The Dental Veneer Procedure

Initial Consultation: The first appointment is with our Kelowna e dentist. During this visit, our dentist will examine your oral health needs and assess whether veneers are the right solution. X-rays and impressions may be taken during this appointment to aid in treatment planning.

Tooth Preparation: The second appointment is to prepare your teeth. During this visit, a small amount of enamel is removed from the front of the tooth that will receive veneers.

This ensures a proper fit. Impressions of your teeth may be taken, and temporary veneers are fitted. 

Veneer Placement: The final appointment is when the custom veneers are ready for placement. The dentist will ensure the veneers fit well and match the desired colour and shape. They are placed permanently using a unique adhesive.

Difference Between Dental Crowns and Veneers

Purpose: Dental Crowns restore the strength and function of a damaged tooth, whereas veneers are used to improve the tooth’s appearance.

Coverage: Dental crowns cover the entire tooth, while veneers cover only the front surface. This means dental crowns provide more structural support and protection to a tooth.

Tooth Preparation: Dental crowns require significant tooth preparation. This involves removing a substantial amount of enamel. Meanwhile, veneers require minimal tooth preparation, thus preserving the natural tooth structure.

Material: Both crowns and veneers can be made from porcelain, but dental crowns can also be made from other materials, including metal or a combination of materials.

Durability: Dental crowns are generally more durable than veneers and can withstand greater force and wear over time.

Cost: Dental crowns are typically more expensive than veneers due to the additional tooth preparation and the materials used.

Choose the Right Option for You

Book an appointment at Knox Mountain Dentistry and assess if you require a dental crown or a veneer.

Our dentists can assess your dental health and objectives and recommend the proper treatment to improve your smile.