The Difference Between Dental Crowns and Dental Veneers

People experiencing oral issues concerning the appearance and condition of their teeth may want to consider getting a dental crown or veneer procedure. These are restorative treatments that work to enhance your oral health both in terms of form and function. By providing extra protection, crowns and veneers can support your health and prevent damage and decay in the long run.

Thanks to modern technology, the crowns and veneers available today are developed using advanced materials that make them look like your natural teeth. As a result, it will be hard to tell your real teeth and these additions apart.

Getting dental crowns or veneers is necessary for people facing noticeable oral concerns, such as teeth discoloration and damaged teeth. Your cosmetic dentist will give you advice on the proper dental procedure for you. However, it’s essential to know how the two treatments differ. 

What Are Dental Crowns?

Humans are naturally born with crowns on their teeth—the solid and visible region of the tooth located just above the gums and root formations. Your tooth’s crown is coated with enamel, a durable and crystallized transparent layer that serves to protect your teeth.

When your tooth enamel becomes damaged over time, you can use artificial crowns to replace them to strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities from affecting your oral health. Dental crowns are made from various materials that are all considered safe for your teeth.

A typical crown procedure will require you to visit your dentist for two sessions to guarantee the crowns are properly applied to your teeth. The first session involves preparing your teeth by shaving them accordingly to make way for the crowns. The procedure of adhering the crowns in their permanent positions is performed during the second visit.

What Are Dental Veneers?

A dental veneer is similar to a partial crown, and a dentist can recommend it to cover the outer layer of your teeth. It coats the surface of your teeth and is made from a hard-wearing material to provide protection and long-lasting results.

Veneers are formed in the lab using dental porcelain out of a mold and are attached to your teeth using dental cement. Unlike dental crowns, veneers are only placed on the outer surface of your tooth instead of around the entire circumference.

If you think your oral problem isn’t severe and you’re only worried about the appearance of your teeth, you can opt for dental veneers to address your cosmetic woes. However, it’s important to note that veneers provide minimal protection compared to crowns.  

What’s the Best Dental Procedure for You?

A full-service dentist can help you decide between getting dental crowns or veneers. During your consultation, they will take a closer look at your oral condition, especially the areas you cannot see. After the exam, they will offer a diagnosis on how to treat your situation to regain your oral health. 

If you know for a fact that your teeth are severely damaged due to cracks, chips, deterioration, and infection, you will benefit the most from dental crowns for their protective and cosmetic functions. Meanwhile, when your primary concern is your appearance and you aren’t dealing with significant oral damage, veneers may be the best option.

Conclusion

Now that you have a better understanding of crowns and veneers and their similarities and differences, you have an easier time deciding which one you need to improve your oral health. The best way to be sure about what you pick out is to seek a dentist’s help for professional advice. If you’re experiencing major oral problems, you will need to get dental crowns, but if your troubles involve the physical appearance of your teeth alone, picking veneers helps you avoid high costs.

Are you looking for the best dentist near you in Murfreesboro, TN, to perform the needed dental procedure? Cosmetic Dentistry Murfreesboro is run by Dr. Greg Nicholson, who is known for offering cosmetic dentistry for the past twenty-five years. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment!