It’s not always easy to understand your options for fixing a damaged tooth. As your dentist in Dallas, GA, our team is committed to your oral health. A big part of that is providing you with necessary patient education. So in this month’s blog post, we want to cover a question we hear a lot: what’s the difference between dental veneers and crowns?
Porcelain Veneers Erase Cosmetic Issues
For front teeth that are chipped, cracked, stained, discolored, slightly gapped, or otherwise aesthetically flawed, porcelain veneers come to the rescue. One of the most popular options in cosmetic dentistry available today, they are thin porcelain coverings that are applied to the surface of the teeth that show when you smile. Porcelain veneers erase virtually any cosmetic imperfection — and when cared for properly, they can be expected to last for a decade or more.
Traditional veneers require the removal of a small portion of tooth enamel to make room for the new layer of porcelain. Most patients who wish to transform the appearance of their front teeth with porcelain veneers are eligible for the treatment. To determine your candidacy for veneers, your dentist will evaluate your oral and overall health. Patients suffering from advanced gum disease or tooth decay should seek treatment before undergoing any elective cosmetic procedure.
Dental Crowns Improve Form and Function
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering that completely surrounds the affected tooth. Unlike a porcelain veneer, the dental crown restores the strength of a damaged tooth in addition to improving its appearance. Porcelain veneers are reserved for the teeth that show when you smile, but a dental crown can be used in the front or back of the smile. Crowns made of porcelain blend beautifully with teeth in the smile zone.
A small amount of enamel is removed preceding porcelain veneers. Before a dental crown, however, the tooth must be completely reshaped to make room for the cap that fits on top. Dental crowns are commonly used to hold together parts of a broken tooth, restore significant decay, as the final step in a root canal, or to restore the strength of a seriously weak or worn tooth.
A Note on Dental Porcelain
A veneer or crown made of dental porcelain will look and feel just like your natural tooth. That’s because the material reflects light in the same way — but the best thing about porcelain is that it’s highly resistant to stains. A tooth restored with a porcelain veneer or crown will stay the same beautiful shade of white for years after its application.
Care for a porcelain restoration is as simple as what you’re already used to. Brush gently with a non-abrasive toothpaste, floss daily, and visit your dentist as recommended to keep your surrounding teeth and gums healthy. Protect your veneers or crowns with a mouthguard if you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you’d like to discuss your smile restoration, please get in touch with Distinctive Dentistry today. We’ll discuss dental veneers and crowns and help you understand which one is best for your smile.
