If you are looking for ways to improve the function of your teeth and/or how they look, then you have the option of getting either a crown or a veneer. There is a difference when it comes to crown vs veneer, and knowing how they are different will let you know which one is right for you.
Crown vs Veneer
One of the biggest differences when it comes to a crown vs veneer is how much of the tooth is covered and how much has to be removed for the process.
When it comes to a crown, this is an element that covers your entire tooth and is about 2 mm in thickness. It can be an all-metal alloy, a metal alloy with porcelain fused to it, or completely made from porcelain.
A veneer is about 1 mm thick and only covers the front of your tooth. It is made from a thin layer of porcelain or other materials.
What Are Crowns and Veneers Used For?
Both crowns and veneers are used for a variety of dental issues. They can cover discolored teeth; crooked teeth; broken, cracked, or chipped teeth; or reinforce weakened or decaying teeth. Knowing which one is the best option for your teeth will depend on the problem that the dentist is trying to solve.
Veneers
Veneers are considered a conservative restoration method, and they are often used when your tooth has enough enamel on it for the veneer to bond to.
To prepare your tooth for the veneer, a small amount of enamel, about half a millimeter, on the front of your tooth is ground down and roughened. Veneers can improve the look and color of your teeth and are the best choice when the problem that needs to be corrected is minor.
This means that veneers are the best option for chipped or cracked teeth, for small gaps in between teeth, and for superficial alignment issues. The thin veneer layer holds up through normal use of your mouth, but it can crack or come loose if there are repeated, sharp impacts to the tooth.
Crowns
If you have to have a crown, this will cover your entire tooth. To prepare the tooth for a crown, most of the tooth will have to be ground down. Conversely, if there isn’t enough tooth for the crown to adhere to, then it will have to be built up. These processes are often done with a local anesthetic.
Crowns are often used when you experience larger dental problems, including bad breaks, decay, or if you had a root canal performed. The role of the crown is to prevent further damage from happening to the tooth while allowing you to use your mouth as you normally would.
Your Dentist Will Choose the Best Method
When it comes to knowing if you need a crown vs veneer, your dentist will let you know which one is your best option. If you need to have dental work done, contact Parkwood Dental in Bradenton, FL and make an appointment today!
