Dental crowns and dental veneers are both time-tested, reliable methods for tooth restoration, enhancing your natural smile and offering protection for your teeth. However, there are some substantial differences between these two treatment options, and the best choice depends on your situation. Dr. Harry W. McCool offers personalized dental care in Lilburn, GA to help patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles.
Veneers Are Good For Addressing Minor Cosmetic Issues
Dental veneers are thin porcelain coverings that are bonded to the front of the damaged teeth. They can be used to alter the color, shape, and spacing of your teeth. Dental veneers can close spaces between your teeth, lengthen small or misshapen teeth or whiten stained teeth. Maybe your teeth are chipped or are showing signs of wear as you age? Porcelain veneers can protect them from further damage while also restoring their appearance in a way that looks and feels natural.
Veneers are a more conservative treatment than crowns because they require less of the tooth to be prepared prior to treatment. In most cases, only a thin layer of tooth enamel is removed from the front of the tooth. This makes veneers good for aesthetic problems such as discoloration and crooked teeth.
Dental Crowns Are Better For Advanced Tooth Restoration
Dental crowns fit over the top of a damaged tooth to protect the sensitive tissue inside. The damaged tooth is prepared and then the crown is cemented on top. This holds the damaged tooth together as well as keeping the crown mounted upon it.
Dental crowns are constructed of durable materials such as porcelain, resin, or a composite material. These materials are strong enough to endure the trauma of chewing but still resemble natural tooth enamel. Once a crown is cemented to the top of the tooth, it becomes part of the tooth.
Crowns require extensive tooth preparation, making them a better option for a tooth that has extensive damage. A crown may be necessary after a root canal, a broken tooth, or a tooth that has severely decayed.
Maintaining Crowns vs. Veneers
Dental veneers can last 10 to 15 years with proper care. Although they are strong and securely bonded to the teeth, they are brittle and have a finite lifespan. Dental crowns have a similar lifespan, and are still subject to breaking with too much pressure or natural wear and tear.
Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene regimen that includes regular check-ups with your dentist will help keep your restorations intact and functioning as long as possible. Crowns and veneers do not require extra care beyond brushing and flossing to keep the remaining natural teeth healthy.
Dental Restoration Consultation in Lilburn, GA
Dr. McCool offers consultations to discuss your dental concerns and evaluate your oral health at his offices in Lilburn, GA. We look forward to meeting your needs and goals for your smile and helping you enjoy the lifelong benefits of good oral health. To schedule your appointment, request an appointment online or call our office at (770) 450-4407.