Dental crowns and dental veneers are both effective treatments for tooth restoration, enhancing your natural smile and offering protection for damaged or worn teeth. However, there are some 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 his patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles.
Veneers Are Good For Addressing Minor Cosmetic Issues
Dental veneers are thin porcelain coverings that are adhered to the front of your teeth, covering and protecting them. 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. Perhaps your teeth are chipped or are showing signs of wear? Porcelain veneers can revitalize their appearance in a way that looks natural while also protecting them from further damage.
Veneers are a more conservative treatment because they require less of the natural tooth to be altered prior to treatment. In most cases, only a thin layer of tooth enamel must be removed from the front of the tooth. This makes veneers good for addressing 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 restore the tooth and protect the sensitive tissue inside. The damaged tooth is prepared by having the outer layer of enamel removed and then the crown is fitted over the top and cemented on top. This prevents the compromised tooth from breaking apart and protects it from further damage.
Dental crowns are made from durable materials such as porcelain, resin, or a composite material that is strong enough to endure the trauma of chewing. After 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 major damage. A crown may be necessary after a root canal, a broken tooth, or for a tooth that has suffered severe damage from tooth decay.
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 only a limited lifespan. Dental crowns have a similar lifespan, and are still subject to breaking with too much pressure or natural wear and tear.
Keeping up with your oral hygiene by participating in a daily 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 in Lilburn, GA offers consultations to discuss your dental concerns and evaluate your oral health. We look forward to meeting your needs and goals for your smile and helping you enjoy the lifelong benefits of good oral health and a beautiful smile. To schedule your appointment with Dr. McCool, request an appointment online or call our office at (770) 450-4407.