How do I know if porcelain veneers or crowns are a better choice for me?
Having trouble deciding between veneers or crowns? Actually, that is an excellent problem to have. True, being blessed with perfect teeth that never required anything more than regular exams and cleanings would be the best of all outcomes. Short of that, however, you should feel thankful that you live in a time where you have really good options to choose from for restoring or improving that all-important smile!
Originally invented in the 1920s as a means of changing the look of actors, veneers have gone from being temporary, and not always all that natural in appearance, to the vastly improved custom-made porcelain shells that we have today. Extremely thin, yet comparable in strength and resilience to tooth enamel, veneers are bonded to the front of teeth and typically last for 10 years or more.
Where veneers only cover the front of the tooth, because that is all that anyone sees, dental crowns are designed to cover the entire tooth. They are like a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth or attached to an implant. Crowns are created to match the color and shape of the existing natural teeth and are designed to last a lifetime.
Pros and Cons of Veneers and Crowns
Deciding between veneers and crowns is a very individual decision. There are a lot of things to consider and no two situations are the same when it comes to dental issues. It will be important to consult with your dentist, ask a lot of questions and make sure you understand why one is a better recommendation for you. Some of the differences between these two options, which may be helpful for you to know, include:
Porcelain Veneers Pros
- Natural appearance, matching color
- Natural tooth remains mostly intact
- Stain resistant
- No surgery required
- Strong surface, lasts 10 years or more
Porcelain Veneers Cons
- The process cannot be reversed
- Damage, such as cracking or chips, cannot be repaired
- May exhibit sensitivity to hot and cold
- Not everyone is a good candidate
Porcelain Dental Crowns Pros
- Appearance of natural teeth, in shape and color
- Entire tooth covered, provides more protection from decay than veneers
- While not indestructible, with proper care, crowns can last a lifetime
- Protects a tooth following a root canal
- Dental crowns are often, covered, at least in part, by insurance
Porcelain Dental Crowns Cons
- Crowns require more prep and a larger portion of the underlying tooth is removed
- As with veneers, there may be heightened sensitivity to hot and cold, but this is often temporary
- There may be a thin line visible at the very edge of the gum, however with all ceramic crowns, this is issue is eliminated
- The porcelain may chip, but, if not extensive, can be repaired
One must seek a knowledgeable skilled dentist who has done many cosmetic cases, not only to choose crown or veneer but the right material for those crowns or veneers as well. Discuss with your dentist, ask questions, see closeup photos of previous cases done, ask about mix and matching veneers and crowns. With today’s technologies and materials in the field of dentistry, an experienced dentist can create beautiful results by mixing crowns and veneers in a cosmetic case in order to address each individual need of a tooth. There are several factors to consider when making your choice between going with a porcelain veneer or crown. You and your dentist need to consider underlying issues such as decay, existing restorations within the teeth, existing root canal therapies, rotations on teeth and many other factors. The good news is that whichever one you choose is likely to result in a marked improvement by restoring your natural and attractive smile.
If you have questions about veneers or crown or any of our services, whether dentistry or aesthetics, Forest Hills Dentistry is dedicated to delivering the highest quality services possible. We offer the latest and most current information and services to our patients with a new state-of-the-art facility in Forest Hills, Queens. Patient comfort, individualized care and complete satisfaction are our priority.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, you are invited to use our online form by clicking here.