Crowns and veneers both go over your teeth, right? So, what’s the difference between them? Why would you opt for one over the other? Is it because people decide between their pros and cons to decide which they are more comfortable with? Or do they have separate functions?

Crowns Versus Veneers: The Similarities

It makes sense that you would wonder about crowns versus veneers. The two do have similarities, and in some cases, veneers can be recommended instead of crowns. Here are some of those similarities.

• They both go over your teeth.
• Both are used to correct dental issues.
• Both provide coverings for damaged teeth.

The Difference Between Crowns And Veneers

The distinction between crowns versus veneers comes out when looking at their main functions. While similar, the reasons for a dentist choosing between crowns and veneers are based on your teeth, their damage, and their needs. 

Crowns

Crowns are covers dentists place over a tooth, typically as a method of replacement for a severely damaged or missing tooth. You’ll opt for crowns versus veneers if you have a badly decayed or damaged tooth that fillings won’t help with. Crowns restore the shape, look, and function of teeth like this. 

Veneers

Unlike crowns, veneers are typically used for cosmetic dentistry. Veneers cover stained, chipped, uneven, crooked, or worn teeth with a thin layer of porcelain to the front of the tooth. They require at least most of the original tooth to be intact, as they need something to stick to. 

The key difference between crowns and veneers is that crowns provide more function while veneers offer a more cosmetic purpose.

Are The Processes To Get Them The Same?

In some ways, the processes behind getting crowns and veneers are similar, but just like the treatments themselves, they’re not the same. Crowns and veneers have different functions, after all.

For crowns, a mold is made of your tooth and sent to a lab to be manufacture. Then, the area is numbed so that the other layer of the tooth is removed and shaped. Any decay is cleaned away so that the dentist can ensure that the core of the tooth can support the crown. As getting a crown can often require two visits, a dentist can provide you with a temporary crown to wear until your next visit. After the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will secure it in your mouth and ensure it blends with the rest of your teeth in order to look natural.

For veneers, they also require the dentist to make a mold of your teeth, so your future smile looks cohesive. Some of your teeth enamel is filed away – not a lot, just enough so that the veneers can fit onto them. Like crowns, your dentist can give you temporary veneers to wear in the time it takes for the permanent ones to be made. Also similar to crowns, your dentist then binds the veneers to the teeth and makes sure they match the rest of your teeth.

What’s The Aftercare Like For Crowns Versus Veneers?

The aftercare for getting both crowns and veneers is similar to most dental procedures – practicing good oral hygiene and going to regular dental exams and deep teeth cleanings. Avoiding hard foods and biting down on hard objects is also recommended for both, especially veneers, as just like your natural teeth, they can chip or crack. Communicating with your dentist about any concerns with your bite or how they feel is very important too.

Crowns Versus Veneers: Which Is For You?

The answer is: it depends on what your dental problems are. If they’re mostly cosmetic, you’ll probably opt for veneers. If you have serious tooth problems, your dentist might recommend a crown. If you are stuck between crowns versus veneers, call your dentist, as they can recommend the best course of action for you. 

Want To Know More About Crowns Versus Veneers?

Our professional team here at Gunnell Family Dental does both veneers and crowns and can answer your questions about both. Gunnell Family Dental also provides a number of other dental services. For any questions or to make an appointment, please contact us at Gunnell Family Dental today!