If you are in need of dental restoration, you have a variety of options that can enhance your oral health as well as your smile. Two solutions your dentist might propose to you are full-coverage crowns and veneers.
Full Coverage Crowns
Full coverage crowns, often simply known as “crowns,” are a type of dental restoration that completely caps a tooth or dental implant. They are typically used when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or cracked, and other less invasive treatments may not be sufficient to restore the tooth’s functionality and appearance. Dental crowns might be necessary for a variety of reasons. They are often used when a tooth has a large filling, which leaves the remaining tooth weak and susceptible to fracture. Following a root canal, teeth can become brittle and more prone to fracture, so a crown is typically used to provide support and protection. If a tooth is cracked or weakened due to injury, grinding, or aging, a crown can prevent further damage. Crowns can also enhance the appearance of misshaped or discolored teeth. In the case of dental implants, a crown serves as the replacement tooth on top of the implant. Furthermore, crowns act as anchors for dental bridges, which are used to replace missing teeth.
Crowns are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. The choice of material often depends on the location of the tooth (front or back), the patient’s preference, and the dentist’s recommendation.
One of the main advantages of crowns is their durability. They offer a long-term solution for restoring the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. However, the process of installing a crown is more invasive than that for veneers. It involves significant reshaping of the tooth structure to accommodate the crown, which is irreversible and may lead to increased sensitivity or require root canal treatment if the tooth’s nerves are affected.
Veneers
Veneers, on the other hand, are thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. They are highly aesthetic and can be used to change the color, shape, size, or length of the teeth. Veneers are often used for cosmetic purposes, such as correcting discolored, chipped, misaligned, or gapped teeth.
Veneers offer several advantages as a cosmetic dental solution. They provide a natural tooth appearance, and the porcelain material is well-tolerated by gum tissue. Veneers are also stain-resistant, offering a long-term solution for individuals wanting a brighter smile without the worry of discoloration. They offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color and shape as they don’t require the extensive shaping that crowns do, yet offer a stronger, more aesthetic alternative. Furthermore, the color of a porcelain veneer can be selected such that it makes dark teeth appear whiter. Thus, veneers not only enhance the physical appearance but also boost the individual’s self-confidence and self-esteem. However, it’s important to remember that veneers are an irreversible treatment and must be maintained with good oral hygiene.
The process of installing veneers is less invasive than crowns. It typically involves removing a small amount of the tooth’s surface to allow for the added thickness of the veneer. However, this process is also irreversible.
While veneers generally offer less durability than crowns, they can last many years with proper care. They provide a more conservative approach to changing a tooth’s color and shape without requiring extensive shaping before the procedure as crowns do.