Crowns vs. Veneers
When treating chipped, cracked, and fractured teeth, dentists have a number of options available to them. In some cases, dentists will use porcelain veneers to correct cosmetic imperfections, while other patients may require a crown to fully address their dental health issues.
Dr. Nathaniel Podilsky uses both veneers and crowns at his Edmonton, AB, dentistry practice. Let’s take a moment to compare and contrast veneers and crowns. By learning the differences, you may learn which treatment option is better suited to your needs.
What Is a Porcelain Veneer?
A porcelain veneer is a thin porcelain shell that is used to conceal aesthetic flaws affecting a tooth. A small amount of a tooth’s enamel is removed in order to accommodate the finished veneer. With the veneer in place, a patient’s smile is cosmetically restored.
Since the veneer is made of semi-translucent tooth-colored material, it blends in seamlessly with your natural teeth. The realistic results allow patients to smile happily, and without worry.
When Are Porcelain Veneers Used?
Our Edmonton dental practice typically uses porcelain veneers for aesthetic issues that affect the front teeth. This includes any of the following:
- Chips
- Cracks
- Stains and spots
- Tooth discoloration
- Tooth gaps
- Misshaped teeth
- Smile asymmetry
Since porcelain veneers are made for cosmetic flaws, they are not used to address structural problems affecting a tooth’s structure. A different dental procedure would be recommended in those cases.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth. When prepping the remaining tooth structure, a dentist removes any compromised tooth structure. An impression is then taken of the healthy tooth structure that remains so a custom crown can be fashioned.
Dental crowns can be created from different kinds of materials depending on the needs of the patient. The most common kinds of crowns are made from metal, resin, porcelain, and other dental ceramics. It’s also possible for a tooth-colored layer to be placed onto a metal crown.
When Are Dental Crowns Used?
Dental crowns tend to be used when all other treatment options are no longer viable. In such cases, patients are no longer good candidates for a filling, inlay, or onlay. The crown is made to protect the remaining tooth structure even though it can have some cosmetic applications as well.
Crowns are most commonly used to treat:
- Severe tooth decay
- Fractured teeth
- Major dental discoloration
- Considerable issues with tooth shape
Which Treatment Option Is Right for Me?
Both veneers and crowns are effective treatment options, but it’s important to make sure patients undergo the right procedure for their needs.
In general, we find that this applies to most patients:
- Veneers are better for cosmetic flaws affecting otherwise healthy teeth
- Crowns are used to restore a tooth that is weakened or structurally compromised
During your consultation with Dr. Podilsky, you can have your problems carefully assessed. We can go over your goals and concerns, and then discuss the pros and cons of all available treatment options. We’ll help you make the right decision for your needs.
Learn More about Veneers and Crowns
If you live in the Edmonton area and would like more information about porcelain veneers and dental crowns, contact our practice online. You can also reach our practice by phone at (780) 428-6846.
