Do you feel great about showing off your teeth? Fortunately, there are numerous cosmetic dental treatments out there to help patients feel more confident about showing off their smiles, including dental crowns and porcelain veneers. Both of these treatments have numerous advantages, but which one is better for your individual needs? Read on to learn about the pros and cons of veneers and crowns so you have a better idea of which one you should get.
Porcelain Veneers
This is a dental procedure that involves a thin shell of porcelain being placed over the front surface of the teeth in order to improve the aesthetic appearance and well as protect them from damage. They are becoming increasingly popular.
Pros
- Veneers are more aesthetically pleasing in the long run.
- This treatment only involves the removal of about half a millimeter of protective enamel.
- Ideal for fixing minor aesthetic issues, like uneven teeth, chips, discoloration, and gaps.
- Procedure is minimally invasive.
Cons
- They only cover the front surface of your teeth, leaving the rest vulnerable to decay.
- Veneers are permanent, so they cannot be reversed.
- Porcelain veneers may not be covered by dental insurance because they are usually considered cosmetic rather than restorative.
- Porcelain veneers aren’t as ideal for severe tooth damage.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a hollowed-out cap that is placed over a compromised tooth to protect it from further damage. They help to restore a tooth to its normal function and appearance.
Pros
- Crowns cover the entire tooth and protect it from future decay.
- They are more similar in appearance to natural teeth.
- Crowns are ideal for more severe dental issues and cosmetic damage.
- They are more durable than porcelain veneers are.
Cons
- This procedure is slightly more invasive.
- More of the natural tooth must be removed in order to make room for the crown.
- More discomfort tends to be present after the procedure.
Which One Is Better?
Both veneers and crowns are great at improving the appearance and function of compromised teeth. If you are solely looking for cosmetic improvements, veneers are likely the better option, but if you have damage to your smile, you will be more likely to need a dental crown. The best thing to do is discuss your options with your dentist so you can pick the treatment that is best suited for your dental needs.
By weighing the pros and cons of veneers and crowns, as well as talking to your dentist, you will be showing off your smile with pride again in no time!
About the Author
Dr. M. Faizan Ali is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for nearly 15 years. After graduating from the BVP Dental College and Hospital in India and practicing for a year, he moved to San Diego where he pursued his Master’s in Public Health from San Diego State University and was admitted into the Advanced Dental Studies Program for International Dental Graduates at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry. He has completed an Aesthetic Advantage Cosmetic course at NYU/Observer and is passionate about cosmetic dentistry. For more information about your options or to schedule an appointment at his office in Frisco, visit his website or call (469) 850-0786.